Services
Reference
We're here to answer your questions!
Technology
The Library offers public computers for browsing and printing, free WiFi for all library users, and assistance with technology. Use your library barcode number to quickly sign in to the public computers or ask for a guest pass at the upstairs service desk.
Holds
Place holds on titles through the Library's online catalog, including most materials from other libraries or ask for staff assistance in person or by phone by calling 860-537-5752.
Inter-Library Loan (ILL)
Many people's favorite library service! Most materials can be easily found and reserved through the Library's shared catalog with 31 other Connecticut public libraries. For items from other libraries, please ask for assistance in person or by phone by calling 860-537-5752.
Fax
The Library's fax machine is surprisingly busy! Please pay at the upstairs service desk and don't hesitate to ask for assistance.
Fees:
- First page sent: $2.00
- First page received: $2.00
- $.50 for each additional page
Photocopier & Printer
Make photocopies or print from the Library's public computers using the Library's public photocopier/printer.
Fees:
- 15 cents a page for black & white
- 50 cents a page for color
Non-Print Formats
Check out a wide variety of feature films, documentaries, television shows on DVD/Blu-Ray, and audiobooks and music on CD.
Digital Library -- Downloadable Media
Audiobooks, ebooks, e-magazines and video content may be borrowed through the Libby app, available in your device's app store.
Museum Passes
Printable/Virtual passes for free and discounted admission to area attractions may be reserved for a specific day here. A few passes must be borrowed in person from the Children's Department, call 860-537-7201 for assistance. Many thanks to Friends of Cragin Memorial Library for purchasing museum passes!
Local History
The Library has a small local history and genealogy collection and a partial collection of Bacon Academy yearbooks. The Library owns the complete run (1950 to 1972) of the Colchester Citizen, but please note that the paper did not publish obituaries. Additional information may be obtained from the Connecticut State Library, Capitol Avenue, Hartford, CT; The Godfrey Library, Newfield Street, Middletown, CT; or the Connecticut Historical Society, Elizabeth Street, Hartford, CT.
Friends of the Library
Friends of Cragin Memorial Library meet on the second Thursday of each month at 5:30 pm in the Library. Goals are to promote awareness and enhance usage of the Library by raising funds for programs, materials, equipment, and services not included in the regular Library budget. You are invited to join the Friends at any time by requesting information at the Check Out Desks.
Patrons with Special Needs
Homebound Colchester residents may request services by phone, including access to the Connecticut Library for Accessible Books. In addition to a collection of Large Print books, a print magnifier is available for use in the library. Area convalescent homes, childcare providers, nursery schools and teachers may make special lending arrangements.
Access
The Library staff does not restrict access to materials on the basis of the age of the borrower. Parents or other caregivers are requested to supervise children in their selection of library materials.
Meeting Rooms
The Library has six meeting rooms available for use. Please see the Library's meeting room policy and room use application form or call the Library at 860-537-5752 for assistance.
Library Programs for All Ages
The library offers a wealth of programs for all ages--from babies to seniors! Please see the library's monthly newsletter for what's coming up!