Frequently Asked Questions

A quick guide to borrowing, searching, library concerns, and the Ask Merce AI assistant.

Library Help Center

How Can the Library Help?

Select a category or open a question to view the applicable library guideline.

Category 01

Borrowing Books

Loan limits, renewals, penalties, and borrowing eligibility.

How can books be borrowed?

Library users may borrow books through the system or directly at the library.

How many books may be borrowed at a time?

Each borrower may borrow a maximum of two (2) books at a time.

How long may borrowed materials be kept?

Borrowed materials may be kept for a maximum of seven (7) days.

Can borrowed books be renewed?

Yes. Borrowed books may be renewed, subject to the library borrowing process.

What happens when a book is returned late, damaged, or lost?

Overdue books are subject to a fine of ten pesos (PHP 10.00) per weekday. If a book is lost or damaged, the borrower must immediately inform the librarian.

Can books be borrowed from different sections?

Yes. Books may be borrowed from different sections, but the maximum limit of two (2) books still applies.

Are there materials that cannot be borrowed?

Yes. Materials that are currently borrowed by other users and materials designated for reference use only cannot be borrowed.

Category 02

Searching

Finding titles, authors, and recommended materials.

How can a book be found in the system?

Library users may search for books using the title or author through the system.

Does the system show frequently borrowed and recommended books?

Yes. Frequently borrowed and recommended books are displayed on the dashboard.

Category 03

Concerns

Account access, incorrect requests, and service interruptions.

What should a borrower do after losing or damaging a book?

The borrower must immediately inform the librarian to avoid continuous fines and must replace the book with a new copy of the same title.

What should a user do if an account cannot be accessed?

The user must coordinate with library staff or the system administrator for account assistance.

Who should users contact for help with the system?

Users may contact the librarian for assistance.

What happens if a user accidentally selects the wrong book?

The system provides an option to confirm or cancel a borrowing transaction before it is finalized.

What happens when the system is unavailable?

Users may proceed directly to the library so staff can assist them with manual borrowing.

Category 04

AI Assistant

Ways the Ask Merce assistant can support library users.

How can the AI assistant help library users?

The AI assistant can help users search for books, check availability, and understand borrowing and returning processes.

Need More Assistance?

Library staff members are ready to help.

Users with concerns not covered on this page may coordinate directly with the librarian.