Library Services FAQ
FAQ overview
- Who can register for an Iowa Library Services/State Library card?
- What can I do with an Iowa Library Services/State Library card?
- Is there a charge for services?
- What journals and magazines do you have?
- How long can I keep materials?
- Where are you located and when are you open?
Who can register for an Iowa Library Services/State Library card?
Any Iowan can register for an Iowa Library Services/State Library card even though we are the "business library" for state employees. We encourage Iowans to use their local public library as their "home library."
What can I do with an Iowa Library Services/State Library card?
- Iowans with an Iowa Library Services/State Library card can log-in to the library's
on-line databases for magazine articles, research and much more on our Online Resources page.
They can also check out materials by coming to the Iowa Library Services/State Library at the
Ola Babcock Miller Building, E. Grand and 12th St., Des Moines, Iowa.
- State employees may use their card to log-in to the library's online catalog
and place holds on and request items that the library owns. Materials
will be sent via local mail or U.S. mail to state employees.
Is there a charge for services?
There is no charge to state employees for any of the Iowa Library Services/State Library's services. Non-state employees are charged $.20/page for copies, scanning and printing. Additional charges apply for faxes. Contact our information desk for exact amounts at 515-281-4102 or 800-248-4483.
Will you borrow something from another library for me?
- This service is available for free to state employees only. Fill out this form to request materials from the Iowa Library Services/State Library whether we own it or not.
- Non-state employees should contact their local public libraries.
What journals and magazines do you have?
This information is available in our online catalog.
How long can I keep materials?
The checkout period is for three weeks. Materials may be renewed one time, if there isn't someone waiting for them. You can renew your materials online by going to our catalog and logging in with your Iowa Library Services/State Library card number.
Where are you located and when are you open?
Iowa Library Services/State Library is located in Des Moines, Iowa. The Law Library is located on the second floor of the State Capitol Building at 1007 E. Grand Ave. All other collections and services are in the Main Library at 1112 E. Grand Ave. Hours for both are 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday.
