Found what you were looking for in the catalog, but it's not on the shelf? Or Forbes doesn't own it, but another library has a copy of the item you want? You can request materials online to be delivered to your home library and held for you.
To place a request:
- Search the library catalog to identify the item(s) you want.
- If you get a list of items, you can click on the REQUEST button next to the item you want; or click on the title of the item you want and then click the REQUEST button near the top of the screen.
- Enter your library card number and PIN at the prompts, and choose a pickup location (where you would like the item delivered) from the drop-down menu. Then click SUBMIT.
- You can have up to 10 holds at one time.
Materials from other libraries
If you don't find what you're looking for in the Forbes Library catalog, click on the drop-down menu where it says Northampton. Scroll to the bottom and choose All Western MA Libraries, then click the Search button again. If you still do not find it, then head on over to the C/W Mars Union Catalog and try your search there. (You will often find a handy link to the Union Catalog after performing your search in the Western MA Catalog— look under "More Resources" on the right of the screen.)
Requests placed through the Union Catalog take longer to fill than request placed directly through the Western MA Catalog, so it is always best to check All Western MA Libraries first. The Union Catalog, however, is your next best bet!
If you still can't find what you are looking for, you can try out the Massachusetts Virtual Catalog, and of course, you may always fill out an interlibrary loan form (available at any of the public service desks) or ask a librarian. Requests placed in this way may take longer, but they allow you to borrow materials from libraries throughout the world!
Important details
Don't forget to log out when you are done!
The Library will notify you when the item is ready to be picked up. Please allow up to 2 weeks for delivery, though many items arrive sooner.
If the item you are looking for is in the Forbes Library and has a shelf status of "Check Shelves" it is best to call the library at 413-587-1011 to have a staff member pull it for you and put it on the hold shelf. If you place the hold electronically there will be a delay before the library staff is aware of your hold and it will slow down our ability to fulfill it for you.
The librarians will be happy to help you use this feature.
Please note that the library's collection of vinyl music recordings (LPs) are not holdable through the catalog. Our inter-library loan department will honor requests for LPs by calling 587-1011 or faxing 587-1015.
Here are some Tips for Using the Library Catalog.
Would you like to be able to have someone else pick up your items on hold?
We respect the privacy of our patron's library accounts, this is why we have required the person who placed the hold to come in and pick up the hold themselves. However, because we realize how hectic life can get, we will now allow you to authorize someone else to pick up your holds. Simply stop by the library with your library card and let us know the name of the person you would like to authorize. From that point on, the person you have authorized may come in with a picture ID and pick up your hold items*. If you have any questions please ask.
*Only those items on hold will be able to be charged out to your account. Also, please note this policy only applies at the Forbes Library.
Email Holds Notification FAQs:
How will this benefit me?
You will get notified instantly through an informative email delivered right to your inbox. This will speed up the process and make notification more efficient for you and the library.
What if I don't have email?
If you don't have email, the library will continue to phone you when holds come in.
How do I know if the library has my correct email on file?
Bring your library card to the main circulation desk and a staff member will check and update your library record as needed.