Getting a library card
In the United States, public library cards are usually free for people who live in the library's service area, and often for people who work, study or own property there. Bring photo ID and something showing your address, such as a utility bill or lease. Many libraries let you start the application online. People outside the service area can sometimes get a card for an annual fee. Rules vary by library, so check yours.
Searching the catalog
The library catalog shows what the library owns, which branch has it, and whether it is checked out. Log in with your card number and PIN to see your loans and holds. Most catalogs let you filter by format (print, large print, ebook, audiobook, DVD) and save lists of books you want to read later.
Placing holds
If a book is checked out or at another branch, place a hold. The library adds you to a waiting list and tells you by email, text or app when the book is ready. You then have a set number of days to pick it up from the hold shelf. For popular new books the wait can be weeks or months, so many readers keep several holds going at once.
Some catalogs let you freeze or suspend a hold. You keep your place in line, but the book passes to the next person if it arrives while you are away or busy. This is handy when too many holds come in at once.
Interlibrary loan
If your library doesn't own a book, ask about interlibrary loan. The library borrows the book from another library for you. It can take a week or more, loan periods may be shorter, and some libraries charge a small fee. Interlibrary loan is useful for older, out-of-print or specialist books.
Borrowing ebooks and audiobooks
Most public libraries lend digital books through apps such as Libby, Hoopla or cloudLibrary, depending on which services your library pays for. You sign in with your library card and borrow from your phone, tablet or computer. Loans end automatically, so there is nothing to return late.
- Libraries license digital books from publishers. Many licenses let only one person borrow a copy at a time, which is why popular ebooks have waitlists.
- Some licenses expire after a set period or number of loans, so a library may need to buy a title again.
- In the US, Libby can send many library ebooks to a Kindle. Kobo e-readers have library borrowing built in. See how e-readers work.
Fines and fees
Many libraries have dropped overdue fines in recent years, though charges for lost or damaged items usually remain. Some still charge fines on certain items. Your account page shows any charges, and staff can often help if a fee is blocking your card.
Other things libraries offer adults
- Book clubs and author talks, often free and open to anyone.
- Book club kits with several copies of one title (see starting a book club).
- Meeting rooms, computers, printing and Wi-Fi.
- Seasonal reading challenges for adults.
- At some libraries, museum passes, tools or other items to borrow.
Ask a librarian
Librarians can suggest books based on what you have enjoyed, track down a hard-to-find title, or point you to a good translation of a classic. Many libraries offer this by chat or email as well as at the desk.