Ask a Librarian
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the Los Angeles Public Library reopen?
The Los Angeles Public Library is currently working diligently towards safely reopening and resuming library services. We are excited to begin the first step of a phased reopening with Library To Go curbside pickup services at select library locations.
Where can I return my items?
Library materials can be returned in the bookdrop at any of our pickup locations. All due dates on existing checkouts have been extended to September 30. The Los Angeles Public Library is currently following the Department of Public Health guidelines and setting materials aside for several days. After this short period, items will be checked in and removed from your account. Since we are now fine-free, you will not see a late fine.
Why are my returns still on my account?
The Los Angeles Public Library is currently following Department of Public Health guidelines and setting materials aside for several days. After this isolation period, the items will be checked in and removed from your account. Since we are now fine-free, you will not see a late fine. If you have questions about the loans on your account, please email us with your name, library card number and where the items were returned, so we can investigate further.
Can I renew my library materials?
Patrons can still renew library materials 24/7. You can renew online using your My Library Account or by calling our renewal hotline at 888-577-5275.
What is my library card’s PIN?
Your PIN is the last four digits of the telephone number in your library account. Please be aware that it might be an older telephone number than you're expecting. If you cannot recall your PIN or experience difficulty logging in, please complete the Ask a Librarian email form, including your name, telephone number, address and library card number, so our circulation staff can assist you further.
I can’t log in. How can I get help with my library card?
We’d be happy to help! First do make sure that you’re logging in with your library card number (no dashes or spaces) and PIN, the last four digits of your telephone number. Please be aware that it may be an older telephone number than you're expecting. If you have an e-card or Student Success Card, be sure to use the letters “ECARD” or “SSC” before the digits with no space in-between.
Second, double check that you’re using our website (lapl.org) or our name in your e-media app “Los Angeles Public Library” to log in. Our name is very similar to a separate library system, the Los Angeles County Public Library, so many people make that mistake.
If you have tried these tips and still cannot log in, please complete the Ask a Librarian email form, including your name, telephone number, address and library card number, so our circulation staff can assist you further.
How can I get a library card?
Any resident of Los Angeles can apply for an e-card for instant access to our resources.
If you suspect you already have a library card, please use our Ask a Librarian email form, include your name, telephone number and address, to request recovery of your library card information.
I can’t find my library card. How can I recover my library card number?
Please complete the Ask a Librarian email form, including your name, telephone number and address. In the Question section of the form, please indicate that you would like to recover your library card number. Our circulation support staff will be happy to assist you via email.
My library card is expired. How can I reinstate it?
Please complete the Ask a Librarian email form, including your name, telephone number and address. In the Question section of the form, let us know your library card has expired and we’ll be happy to assist you further via email.
I received a notification that my library card will expire soon. What do I need to do to keep my account active?
Library cards automatically renew on their due date, so long as there is recent activity on your account. Just be sure to borrow either a physical loan or one of our digital items (like an e-book from Overdrive) before your library card’s expiration date.
Is the library currently accepting donations?
Thank you for considering the Los Angeles Public Library for your donation. We appreciate the offer, but unfortunately, we are not accepting donations due to space limitations.