The catalog said that the book is available, but when I went to the shelf, it wasn't there.
Several events can affect whether a book is really available for checkout including the following.
- The book could have been misshelved. We ask our users to leave books on the tables or designated library carts, but sometimes people try to be helpful and put materials in the wrong place. The library's shelvers may also make errors.
- The book may have just returned from being checked out, and is still in our Circulation Division, waiting to be returned to the shelves. Ask at the return desk on the first floor.
- It may be on the sorting shelves. Ask a staff member to help you locate them. (Note: Fiction sorting shelves are in the Circulation work area.)
- It may be in use in the library.
- It may have been stolen. Even though we have a system which detects library materials that have not been checked out, people may still walk out with materials.

Show All Answers

1. A book I want is checked out. How can I be notified when it is returned?
2. Are reverse directories available at the library? Can I ask the library to search for an address over the phone?
3. Besides borrowing books, what else can I use my library card for?
4. Can I find out from home if a certain item is on the shelf?
5. Do you carry videos? How about music, spoken word, or recorded literature?
6. Do you have books in Spanish? Other languages?
7. Does the library have meeting rooms available for the public?
8. Does the library have out-of-town telephone books?
9. Does the library offer computer classes? Are there any classes directed at seniors?
10. Does the library offer storytimes for children?
11. How can I get an Inglewood library card?
12. How can I volunteer my time at the library?
13. How do I interpret the online catalog records?
14. How long may I keep materials?
15. How many items may I check out?
16. I need a book or magazine article that the Inglewood Public Library doesn't own. How can I get a copy?
17. I'm a teacher, and I'd like to bring my class to the library. How can I arrange this?
18. May I renew library materials?
19. The book I found in the catalog has a call number c1998. Where are those books?
20. The catalog said that the book is available, but when I went to the shelf, it wasn't there.
21. The catalog says the item I want is in the Depository. What does this mean? Will I be able to check out the book?
22. What fees might the library collect?
23. What happens if I don't bring my materials back on time?
24. What is a valid library card?
25. Where are Inglewood Public Libraries? What are their hours?
26. Where are your biographies?