Giddings Public Library and Cultural Center
Computer lab
Our computer lab consists of 15 computers available free for public use. All of our computers run on Windows 10 and include the 2016 version of Microsoft Word, Access, Excel, Power Point, and Publisher. The lab is available to all users 18 and older, and to library members 14 and older. Use of a library computer constitutes acceptance of the library's computer-use policy.
The computer lab is considered a quiet working environment, and patrons who use the computer lab agree to maintain a quiet working atmosphere. Computers are available on a first-come, first-served basis. The lab closes 15 minutes prior to the library's closure. To use a public computer, visit the front desk and present either your library card or a photo I.D.
Study rooms
We have four individual rooms available for public use. These rooms each have an individual desk and office chair, with an ethernet cable for a fast Internet connection. These rooms are considered quiet study rooms. Walls are not soundproof, and patrons who use these rooms agree to maintain a quiet working atmosphere. Rooms are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Study rooms must be vacated 15 minutes prior to the library's closure. To use an individual study room, visit the front desk and present either your library card or a photo I.D.
Library membership
To apply for a membership, simply bring in a valid state-of-Texas issued photo identification with current address. If your state-issued I.D. does not contain a current address, bring in a tax bill, utility bill, or lease agreement as proof of address. City of Giddings residents receive a free library card. Lee County residents pay $2, and Texas residents pay $10. The library-card issuing process takes about 5 minutes. Library accounts require a photo and are valid for two full years. New account holders are issued a library card when they open their account. In the case of a lost or damaged library card, a replacement may be purchased for $2.50.
Renewals
Eligible library materials are automatically renewed on their due date if they have not been returned. You may also renew books by logging into your library account using our online catalog. Additionally, you can call to renew your books, or come by in person. There are four cases in which an item is not renewable: 1) The item is "new" to the library; 2) The item has already been checked out for 28 days or longer; 3) The item is on reserve for another member; 4) Your member account is suspended because of overdue items or outstanding charges.
Overdue fines
We are a fine-free library. Read more here.
Lost library materials
It happens--we all lose things ... and we're not mad when it happens! If you lose an item you checked out from the library, call and let us know. You simply pay the replacement value of the item.
Book donations
When space allows, the library accepts donations of books, records, DVDs, and Blu-Rays that are clean and in good condition. The library cannot accept bulk donations of items in boxes, bags, etc. All items must be inspected for donation individually. Donated materials may be added to the library’s collection, contributed to the used book exchange, or donated to another organization. Donors may request a receipt of donation; however, library staff will not estimate the value of donations. Donated materials become library property and are subject to the same maintenance and upkeep schedule as all materials in the collection.
We occasionally donate new and gently used books and magazines from our collection to local schools, elder-care centers, correctional facilities, doctor's offices and more. If you know of a need for donated materials, contact us for more information.
Customer items
The library does not have adequate space to hold items for customers. In the event that personal effects (sunglasses, copy paper, pens, library cards, etc.) are inadvertently left behind, customers may retrieve them within 30 days. Items not retrieved within 30 days are donated or destroyed.