Washington Evening Journal
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Renew Your Library Books Gabbie 2-Way Texting
AT THE LIBRARY
By Beth L Swift, Tech Librarian
Feb. 12, 2026 10:35 am
Southeast Iowa Union offers audio versions of articles using Instaread. Some words may be mispronounced.
Keeping track of due dates just got easier! Our library’s automated system allows you to renew your borrowed books directly from your phone using the Gabbie 2-Way Texting.
No calls, no queues, no stress—just a few taps.
Whether you’re at home, at work, or on the go, renewing your library items has never been more convenient.
Why Use the Automated Renewal System?
The automated renewal system is designed to save you time and help you avoid overdue fines. With the Gabbie 2-Way Texting system you can:
· Renew eligible books
· Check due dates
· View your borrowed items
· Manage your library account without visiting the desk
· It’s fast, secure, and user-friendly.
How to Renew Your Books Using Gabbie 2-Way Texting
Once you receive the notification about having items due, simply reply using ONLY the command choices given. The reply options are;
RENEW DUE
OR
RENEW ALL
The system does not recognize RENEW without the ‘due’ or ‘all’ nor will it recognize any additional wording within that specific message. For example, replying, “RENEW ALL PLEASE” or adding “Thank You” negates any automatic renewal. But we appreciate the effort of chivalry.
Other Commands
Text or reply STATUS to discover if or what items are out on your account. You do not have to wait for a notice from the library first. You can initiate these conversations!
(Disclaimer: I use LIBBY which is why I do not have any physical items out) (Just sayin’)
You may text or reply HELP and it will repeat the reply options again.
STOP is definitely a command you can use but why would you? This is useful. TEMU is annoying.
Using the proper replies will make renewals happen even while the library is closed! Avoid unnecessary charges! Even if text conversation prompts a “library is closed” message, it will still get delivered to a librarian during open hours.

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