Colorado Libraries Collaborate (CLC) has been Colorado’s reciprocal borrowing program since 1991. CLC allows patrons of member libraries to borrow directly from other member libraries. Most libraries in the state have agreed to participate in the program, but library staff are often unaware that their library participates or how to support the program and over the past year or so, we have had a significant uptick in questions about CLC from library staff and members of the public. As such, below are answers to the most frequently asked questions. If we missed anything, or you would like to discuss, please reach out to clc.coloradovirtuallibrary.org!
General Questions
Q: What is Colorado Libraries Collaborate (CLC) and how does reciprocation work?
A: CLC allows patrons of member libraries to borrow directly from other member libraries. This is usually achieved by issuing the borrower a library card, or affixing a barcode sticker to their local library card.
Q:Is there any cost to join the program?
A: No, there is no cost to join.
Q: Where can I find CLC policies / a program overview?
A: CLC program guidelines are available here: https://www.coloradovirtuallibrary.org/resource-sharing/clc/clc-program-guidelines/
Q: Can I see a list of participating locations?
A: A complete list of CLC member libraries can be found here: https://www.coloradovirtuallibrary.org/resource-sharing/clc/clc-member-libraries/
Q: How does a library/school join the program?
A: A library can join the program by submitting the CLC Program Participation Agreement in either the Online Version or Paper Version.
Q: How can I contact you with other questions?
A: If you have any questions, please contact [email protected]
Questions from Libraries
Q: How do I know if I’m compliant with the terms and spirit of CLC?
A: You are in compliance if you have taken steps to:
- Adopt a policy that states lending privileges for CLC Borrowers.
- Eliminate non-resident fees for authorized CLC Borrowers.
- Determine a process for issuing patron barcodes or cards.
- Make CLC policy available on your library’s website.
- Educate library staff about CLC.
- Bonus points for promoting the program in your community!
Q: Can I require patrons to visit in person to receive a card?
A: Yes. Colorado is a local control state, and it is up to the individual library to determine if an in-person visit is required to obtain a card.
Q: Can my library limit/restrict access to eResources for cards issued through CLC?
A: Yes. Colorado is a local control state and it is up to the individual library to determine which resources are available to CLC borrowers. CLC encourages libraries to lend as generously as possible, but maintains that limited participation is preferable to non-participation.
Q: Can I determine my own documentation requirements for issuing a card?
A: Yes. Colorado is a local control state and it is up to the individual library to establish documentation requirements in order to obtain a CLC card.
Q: Can I issue short term cards to CLC patrons?
A: Yes. Colorado is a local control state, and it is up to the individual library to determine the expiration period for cards issued to CLC borrowers.
Q: My library already offers an eCard and/or Visitor card, but does not have a specific “CLC” card type – is that sufficient?
A: Offering an eCard or community card to Colorado residents complies with the spirit of CLC, but we highly encourage libraries to reference CLC in policy statements for these card types to help CLC borrowers understand what to expect.
Q: Can patrons return material borrowed from my library at a different participating library?
A: Yes. Material may be returned at a different participating library. Items should be returned via the Colorado courier service unless the returning or owning library is not on the courier route.
Q: Is there a sample policy that we can refer to?
A: Yes. See our Sample CLC Policy for recommendations and guidance.
Q: Can you tell me who signed the agreement on behalf of my institution, and when?
A: Most libraries signed on in the 90s and scanned copies of the original agreements are available for most participating institutions. Reach out to [email protected] for more information or to obtain a copy of the original agreement.
Q: I don’t see my library on the list – can we sign on?
A: Libraries sign up to participate as a CLC member by submitting a CLC Program Participation Agreement (either online or by paper).
Q: Can my library opt out of CLC?
A: Participation is voluntary, but we strongly encourage all libraries to participate. Most states don’t have a program like CLC, and it reflects Colorado’s unique commitment to resource sharing, and of course, since CLC is a reciprocal program, patrons may lose access to other participating libraries if you do choose not to participate. Please contact us at [email protected] if you would like to discuss your participation.
Q:Do I have to participate in CLC to be eligible for State Grants to Libraries?
A: In the past, CLC participation was a requirement for State Grants to Libraries eligibility for public libraries. However, this requirement is no longer deemed appropriate.
Q: Do cards need a visual indicator of CLC participation?
A: No, there is no need to have a visual indicator that you are a CLC library on your physical library cards.
Questions from Patrons
Q: Why was I denied a card at a participating institution?
A: Most libraries in the state have agreed to participate in CLC, but at a lot of libraries awareness of the program has been lost to time and employee turnover. Please reach out to [email protected] so that we can follow up with the library.
Q: Why do policies vary from one institution to another?
A: Colorado is a local control state, which means that policy decisions are made at the local level and aren’t dictated by the state government.
Q: I was declined a card at a participating library – can you remove them from the list?
A: We cannot remove a library from the member list for reported non-compliance from a borrower. Libraries that wish to opt out need to do so in writing, but if you encounter problems, please contact us at [email protected] so that we can reach out to the library about their participation.
Q: Can I get a physical CLC or statewide library card?
A: No. CLC allows cardholders from any participating library to borrow from any other participating library in the state, but it is not a single physical or digital card that can be used at any member library. Because registration is not centralized, you will need to visit or contact the participating library that you wish to borrow from in order to obtain a card and access their resources.
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