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Circulation & Reference

Reference Services

If you have a reference question, please call, email, or schedule an appointment to visit the library. The library has a rich collection of reference materials, including microfilm of the Vineyard Gazette (1846-2021), MV Times (1984-2013), Cottage City Star (1879-1885), and MV Herald (1887-1897). Your library card is also your ticket into the electronic databases which all Edgartown Library patrons can access for free. These databases connect you with a vast range of materials, from scholarly journals and newspaper archives to financial, medical and scientific information.

To use the databases, log on here.

Get a library card

The Edgartown Library issues library cards free of charge to all Massachusetts residents and property owners. Visitors to the island may apply for a temporary library card, which has a one-time $10 fee and may check out up to ten (10) items at once. To apply for a library card, click on the application below, fill out the form, and either email it to us at email hidden; JavaScript is required, or drop it off during open hours. Massachusetts residents also have the option to sign up for a CLAMS eCard that is limited to electronic materials; to find out more click here.

Stop by the library anytime during open hours and present your photo ID in order to pick up your library card. If you need any assistance, please email us at email hidden; JavaScript is required.

Library Card Application
Library Card Application (Portuguese)

Change my PIN

To change or re-set your PIN, you can call the library or do it online by logging into your account here.

Return materials

You may return library materials inside the library or in the outdoor book drop. Unless otherwise specified, library materials may be returned at any CLAMS library, including all Island libraries.

Place a hold on materials

There are four fast and easy ways to order library materials:

  • Order online through the CLAMS catalog 
  • Download the new CLAMS app on your mobile device (Google Play, Apple App Store)
  • Call 508-627-4221 and leave a message with your request. Make sure you leave your full name and/or library card number.
  • Email email hidden; JavaScript is required with your request. Make sure you include your full name, phone and/or library card number.

Renew materials

As long as there is no hold on the item, most library materials are automatically renewed up to three (3) times.

Statewide Lending

Don’t see what you’re looking for in the CLAMS catalog? Try searching the Commonwealth Catalog, or call the library at 508-627-4221.

Novelist Plus

NoveList is a website designed to help readers find new and interesting reading material. It offers book lists, reviews, book & author read-a-likes, and more.

Find your next read by clicking here.

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