Frequently Asked Questions
1. I forgot my pin number. How can I retrieve it and/or reset it?
1. I forgot my pin number. How can I retrieve it and/or reset it?
The default pin number for patrons that got their library card in the last 2.5 years is the month and day they were born in a four-digit format (mmdd). For example, if someone is born on January 1, 1975, his/her pin number will be 0101. Patrons can come into the library and change this pin to any 4-digit number they prefer. If trying the birthday month and date does not work and you like this specific 4-digit number, let the circulation know to re-enter it in the system.
2. How do I renew books online?
2. How do I renew books online?
In order to renew books online, please follow the steps below:
a. Type in (or click on): https://pontiaclibrary.org
b. Click the “Library Catalog Search” tab on the top of the page.
c. Click Log In on the top right.
d. Enter your library card number and pin and click Log In.
e. On the top right, click on the drop-down menu on the right of your first name and the word account (John’s Account).
f. Click “Loans”.
g. Find the specific item you wish to renew in the list of your checked-out items.
h. Check the box next to the item you want to renew.
i. Click “Renew Loan”.
j. If the item has a hold by another patron placed on it or you have renewed it too many times, the system will not allow you to renew it.
k. If you wish to cancel a hold, choose the “cancel” option.
l. If the item hold is placed through MeLCat, it is preferable to renew it there as well. Click “https://www.mel.org/welcome”
m. Click on “MyMeLCat” on the top of the page and then choose your library from the list and click “Go”.
n. Sign in using your name and your library card number where indicated.
o. Click on your requests link (link example: “2 requests (holds)”).
p. Check the box on the left of the hold you wish to renew and click on “renew”.
q. If you wish to cancel a hold, choose the “cancel” option.
r. If you have any trouble renewing your items, we can assist you by phone or in person.
3. Why can’t I place an order on MeLCat?
3. Why can’t I place an order on MeLCat?
Please note the following:
a. If you attempt to place a hold the same day you get your new card, MeLCat will reject the request. You will have to wait until the next day. This happens because MeLCat uploads new patron records every night.
b. The number on your library card is shown with spaces. When you enter your library card number to place the hold, make sure that there are no spaces between the digits.
c. If after doing the above you still have a problem placing a hold on MeLCat, please talk to a staff member.
4. How long is my hold going to be kept at the Pontiac Public Library?
4. How long is my hold going to be kept at the Pontiac Public Library?
We keep the holds for 7 days. After the 7 days, the item is returned to its home library.
5. How do I request information about an article or an obituary?
5. How do I request information about an article or an obituary?
Please note the following:
a. For an article, please provide the date and the subject of the article
b. For an obituary, please provide the name of the deceased and the date of death.
c. The usual turn-around time is 2 weeks, but it can take longer if we receive many requests at the time of your request or the article/obituary is very old. You will be notified when the retrieval of your requested information is completed. A charge of $3.00 is applied to each request. This amount must be paid prior or upon the delivery of your information. If you want your information to be mailed to you, please provide us with a self-addressed, stamped envelope along with your payment.