Central Library Consortium

What is the Central Library Consortium (CLC)?

The Central Library Consortium (CLC) is a network of Central Ohio libraries working together to provide an extensive amount of resources to their patrons. Started in 1988 with four libraries, the CLC now has 17 member libraries and gives its patrons access to over 4.7 million items.

What are some of the benefits being a CLC member?

Patrons have access to over 4.7 million items through the Bexley Public Library catalog. (compared to about 350,000 items locally). A powerful online catalog with helpful search features like spell-check, the ability to preview book covers, and plot summaries. Our knowledgeable staff will be ready to answer any questions you have. This new catalog includes a mobile-friendly version for your smartphone or tablet, the ability to pay fines online, and the ability to receive text-message notifications with important patron updates. While all items checked-out through Bexley Public Library will be held and picked up here, you can return your materials to any CLC member library.

Is Bexley Public Library still an independent library?

Yes, we are not becoming a branch of another library. We will remain an independent library with the same mission as before; to enlighten, engage, and inspire our community of lifelong learners. While joining the CLC brings great benefits to our patron community, we will still be YOUR Bexley Public Library.

Do I have to wait longer to get an item with a reserve list?

Bexley Public Library patrons automatically go to the top of the reserve list for any item owned by Bexley Public Library (i.e., you will go to the first available spot behind other Bexley patrons on the reserve list). This ensures that you will have easy access to all of the present and future items we own. We share our titles and also receive the shared resources of 16 other libraries, all brought to your doorstep at Bexley Public Library.

Do we still buy new items for our collection?

Yes! While we give our patrons access to millions of resources through the CLC partnership, we will also continue to cultivate our own unique collection.

How does the check-out process work? Do I need to go to other libraries to get items they own?

The check-out process remains essentially the same. You can use the online catalog to reserve items from 17 different libraries (including Bexley Public Library). Instead of picking up items from other libraries yourself, your reserves are sent to BPL for you to pick up here. You are notified when items have arrived, and they will be waiting for you in our “holds” area. Items arrive within 3 days and be held for you to pick-up for 5 days. You then use your Bexley Public Library card to check-out the item. All loan periods and fine amounts will be set by Bexley Public Library regardless of the library source for each item.