Who are our Patrons? You Are!
Our primary patrons are northern Saskatchewan residents but we are also part of the provincial interlibrary loan system. This means that we lend materials to other libraries in Saskatchewan and across Canada. In turn, we have access to most of the material in these other libraries for our patrons.
Headquarters is not a public access library, although we encourage our patrons from northern schools and communities to come and view our materials. Any materials selected will then be forwarded to the patron's public or school library where they would be circulated to the patron. Direct patrons receive materials at their home post office box number.
A) Public Libraries:
There are 12 public libraries in the North. These libraries serve the needs of their communities. We encourage all patrons to use the services of their public library first. If the library does not have the materials required, then the requests are forwarded to PNLS office. Books and materials are then sent to the public library for pick up. Materials are also returned to the public libraries for shipping. Public libraries issue their own library cards or may use the regional library card issued by PNLS.
B) Direct Borrowers:
If the community has no public library they all residents, (children and adults), are encourage to call our office and register for a regional library card. We require name, complete address and phone number for our registration information. This card can be used to borrow materials directly from PNLS or from any other public library in Saskatchewan. Information requests can be handled over the phone, by fax or mail. Books and materials will be mailed directly to the patron. Return postage is also paid by PNLS.
C) Schools
All schools in the north have access to our materials. Teachers in each school in our area are required to register annually.
The school is sent a package of information at the start of each school year. This package has the necessary forms and information for registration and requesting materials and services. Books and materials are sent directly to the school via the librarian. Schools in communities that have public libraries must send their requests through their public library.