5 Digital Library Collections You Can Enjoy from Home

Frequently Asked Questions

• How are library hours changing?

  In May, open hours will change at the following libraries:  

  May 30 
  

  • Fairwood 
  • Kent 
  • Kent Panther Lake 
  • Maple Valley 
  • Southcenter 

  In June, open hours will change at the following libraries:   

  June 18: 
  

  • Carnation 
  • Des Moines 
  • Duvall 
  • Federal Way 
  • Federal Way 320th 
  • Kingsgate 
  • Kirkland 
  • Valley View 
  • Woodinville 
  • Woodmont 

  Most libraries will be open 6 days per week. 

  The days of the week that libraries are open and closed will change at some locations. 

  Some libraries will open earlier or stay open later. 

  Learn more about this change.

• Why did you go fines-free?

  Last year, our Board of Trustees asked staff to analyze the impact of late fines. Over six months, we gathered and reviewed relevant data. On March 29, we presented our analysis to the board.

  Presentation highlights included the following findings:

  • Late fines worsen inequality and discourage library use. Individuals with low-income and limited access to transportation and technology are most impacted.
  • Late fines do not generate a significant source of revenue. In recent years, fines made up less than one percent of our total operating budget.
  • Totals collected continue to decrease over time. This trend correlates with patrons checking out more digital and fewer physical items. Digital titles return automatically and do not accrue late fines.
  • Collecting fines from patrons also has costs. Associated expenses include staff time, payment processing fees, printing notices, and more.
  • A majority of peer libraries have eliminated late fines.

  Based on these findings, we submitted a proposal to eliminate late fines. On April 26, the Board of Trustees voted to approve the proposal.

• Why can’t I use the OverDrive app anymore?

  OverDrive is discontinuing the OverDrive app.

  Switch to the Libby app before May 1 to transfer your eBook checkouts, lists, and history.

  Do you use a Kindle Fire? You’ll still be able to use the OverDrive app on Kindle Fire. This is because Amazon has not yet accepted the Libby App on the Amazon app store.

• Do library employees get paid time off?

  Yes.

  All employees get paid time off for:  

  • Vacation  
  • Sick  
  • One “floating” holiday that employees can choose when to use 
  • Holidays

  We recognize 11 holidays each year. All full-time employees get paid time off for all holidays. Part-time employees get paid holiday time off if the holiday is on a day they work.* 

  *Unless covered by a union contract. 

• How do I apply for a job at the library?

  Fill out our online application. You'll need to create an account on the Government Jobs website.

  1. Go to the applicant login page and select  "Create an Account."
  2. Complete all account information fields then click "Create."
  3. Go to the "Current Job Openings" page and select the job that you want to apply for. Click  "Apply."
  4. Complete all sections of the application. An incomplete application may disqualify you from the application process.
     Have you applied for a job at the library before? You can edit your saved application.
     Is this your first time applying? You can upload a .pdf, .text, or .doc file.
  5. Fill out the “Education and Work Experience” sections with the relevant details. Do not use "see résumé" as a response on the application. Your résumé does not substitute for incomplete “Education and Work Experience” sections.
  6. Save or discard your changes at each step by using the buttons at the bottom of the screen.
  7. Certify and send us your application by clicking "Accept." You will receive an email verifying that we've received your application.

  Need more help?