Frequently Asked Questions

Frederick County Public Libraries materials may be returned to any branch and the Bookmobile.

When possible, Frederick County Public Libraries appreciates the opportunity to support local authors, defined as current Frederick County residents. However, we are not able to add all works submitted to the collection. Submissions must meet FCPL’s general selection criteria outlined in the Materials Selection Policy, and Guidelines for Materials Consideration.   

Local authors who wish to submit their work for consideration should complete the Local Author Form and donate one copy either in person at their local branch, or via mail to:

• Library Collections, 110 E. Patrick Street, Frederick, MD 21701
• Please include your name, address, and email when you submit your work so we can match it with your form submission.

Authors are encouraged to provide links to any professional reviews of their work. Reader reviews on Amazon or other sites will not be considered as part of the review process. The library only accepts physical book formats, not digital, and materials must be bound in a way that enables circulation, ease of use, and durability.

Due to the volume of inquiries, the library cannot respond directly to these submissions or relay final decisions. If added to the collection, works by local authors are subject to the same guidelines for weeding and retention as all other circulating materials. As a result, FCPL cannot guarantee that an item will remain in the catalog indefinitely. Additionally, as part of the general collection, these items may not stay in one location as they are checked out and returned across the library system. If the item is not selected, it will be placed in the library book sale.

Public cards are issued to people 12 or older and child cards are given to people under 12 and require parental or legal guardian permission.

FCPL offers mobile hotspots that can be checked out from our collection and provide wireless internet access from anywhere. Reserve one online.

1. In our catalog, search for the material you want to reserve.
2. When you find the item you want, click on the title.
3. Click on the "Place Hold" button.
4. Enter the full fourteen digits of your barcode from your library card and your last name or fill in your EZ Login credentials in the appropriate boxes.
5. Make sure that the little drop down menu shows the branch where you want to pick up the material.
6. Click on "Submit Hold".

When the material is available for pickup, you'll receive a notice.

Please cancel your hold through your online account or contact your home library.

1. Download Smart Alec App from the Google Play Store.
2. Login to your account using your library barcode without spaces and your last name.
3. Open document/file you want to print.
4. Select "Share" option and then "Print." Some apps just have a "print" button and no "share."
5. Choose Smart Alec from "Select a Printer" at the top of the screen.
6. Click "Print" icon. You'll be asked if you want to use Smart Alec as your printer.
7. Click "OK." Your page/doc will be loaded to the Smart Alec app.
8. Visit your local branch to print and pick up your prints.

All applicants MUST be present including children and infants. Two parents must be present for children ages 0-15 .

1. A completed, unsigned DS-11 passport application filled out in black ink. Do not sign your passport application ahead of time.
2. Any previous U.S. Passport book or card.
3. Proof of U.S. citizenship, such as a birth certificate or naturalization certificate. Original or certified copies only, no photocopies.
4. Current proof of identity, such as a Maryland driver’s license. Visit travel.state.gov for other acceptable forms of proof of citizenship and identity, including name change documentation.
5. A photo that meets the guidelines set by the U.S. Department of State.
6. Two forms of payment: A check or money order to the U.S. Department of State for each application, and a check or card for FCPL fees