RICHLAND COUNTY, SC — Richland County’s library system is rolling out a new name and improved website.

Starting Monday, it’s the Richland Library.

And the web site is now richlandlibrary.com.

Patrons “really refer to us as ‘the library,’” spokeswoman Padgett Mozingo said, “so it really made sense for us to simplify our name.”

The change comes as the library seeks to polish its brand and image, established 20 years ago.

Monument signs using the new name will be installed in coming months, along with interior renovations highlighting its new catchphrase, “access freely.”

The campaign will be unveiled at 10:30 this morning at the main library, 1431 Assembly St. in downtown Columbia. The public is invited.

New policies that increase access to the library include:

• The number of items customers can check out has increased to 60, from 30, including any combination of books, movies and music.

• Items can be checked out up to five times, as long as they have not been requested by another customer.

• Patrons can rack up $10 in fines (instead of $5) and still keep checking out materials.

• Need a replacement card? It’s $1, not $5.

With the changes, patrons will not have to change their account passwords or library cards.

But they may want to get a newly designed library card: There are different versions for teens, children and special patrons.

New cards will be issued at no charge for the next three months, ending March 1.

Dawn Hinshaw