What can I do with my library card?

So many things! Your library card allows you to check out books, of course, as well as movies, music, games, and a lot more! You also get access to our digital catalog of ebooks and audiobooks, check out museum passes, use our computer, printer, and fax machine, and take part in our library programs!

Where else can I use my library card?
That depends on your library card type. If you live in Albany or Rensselaer County, your Altamont Library card makes you a member of the Upper Hudson Library System, and you can use your card at any of the 29 public libraries in those two counties. If you are an Altamont card holder who lives in a different county, you have an out-of-system card. This card entitles you to use of the Altamont Free Library for one year, but may not be honored at other Upper Hudson libraries. We recommend contacting the individual library to find out their use policy.

Do you accept book donations?
Due to the size of our library and the space available, we are generally only able to accept donations once a year, in late April, in advance of our annual book sale on the first Saturday in May. Keep an eye on our social media to find out when donations open up each year. 

How much do you charge for late fees?
We are fine free! Each item you check out comes with two automatic renewals, as long as no one is waiting for the item. If you keep a book past its due date, it will be marked Lost and the replacement price will appear in your account. Once you return the item, the charge is cleared automatically. 

Can I still check out items if I have a fine on my account?

If charges on your account exceed $5, you will be unable to check out items.

How many items can I have out at a time?
There is no limit on the number of items you may have out at once.

Do you have books for sale?
We have a small selection of used books and media for sale, priced as follows:
25¢ for paperback books
50¢ for hardback books
50¢ for cds and dvds

Is there Wi-Fi available inside the library?
Yes! Our wi-fi is free for public use in our building and in our outdoor seating area.

Are there computers available for public use?
Yes, we currently have three computers for use by the public, 1 stand-up and 2 sit-down units. We ask that users be mindful of others who may be waiting to use a computer. 

Do you have anywhere I can work or study? What if I want to hold a program or event?
The library has several comfortable seating and workstation areas, both inside and on our patio, available on a first-come first-served basis. If you are planning a longer or larger scale program, event, or study session, you may reserve the library’s Community Room. Please contact us at least 24 hours in advance to ensure the room will be available and that your requested use is aligned with our facilities use policy. 

Have any other questions? Feel free to call us at (518) 861-7239.

Revised January 2026