Get started with your Anaheim Public Library
Start here to learn how to use your Anaheim Public Library! With a Library card, you get access to everything we offer, including thousands of books, DVDs to borrow, Book Club kits, STEAM on the Go! kits, ukuleles, and much more. Unlock more by using your Library card number to use computers and printers in branches, and access dozens of online resources for research, test preparation, career guidance, language learning, and more. We also offer educational and engaging programs and services throughout the year!
There are so many ways to enjoy your Anaheim Public Library Card — view the FAQ below to get started!
FAQS
- Who can get a Library Card?
- What's the difference between an Online Services Card and a Library Card?
- How do I replace my Library Card if I lost it?
- How do I borrow and return items?
- How long can I borrow items?
- How do I renew items?
- How long can I borrow DVDs, Blu-rays, CDs, and Video Games?
- How do I know if an item is overdue?
- What are your fees and services?
- How much do lost or damaged materials cost?
If you are a permanent resident of California, you can get a free library card at any Anaheim Public Library. Visit your neighborhood branch to fill out an application and bring along a photo ID and something that shows your current address (parental information is acceptable for children). You are responsible for all items checked out on your library card.
Do you want to complete the Library Card application in advance?
Download and print the Adult and Teen Library Card Application or the Youth Library Card Application. Bring your completed application to your neighborhood branch to get your Anaheim Public Library Card.
Just visiting briefly or not a resident of California? Anyone in the world can get an Online Services Card! Fill out our Online Services application to get started now.
Online Services Cards give you access to computers, printers, eBooks and audiobooks, and free online resources like Gale Courses — an extensive collection of online courses available by using your card number. Patrons can find a complete list of Online Resources here.
Library Cards give you access to everything above, plus the ability to borrow books, kits, and DVDs.
Replacement cards for Adults and Teens are $1.00 and 50¢ for children. For your protection, please contact us if you've lost or misplaced library card so that the Library can note this on your account.
Interested in a limited edition library card design? Replace your card anytime for a $1.00 donation and support programs and library materials while sporting a fun new design.
Your library card will allow you to borrow books and other materials at any Anaheim Public Library branch, the Mobile Library (Bookmobile), Exploration on Wheels van, or the book vending machine at ARTIC.
Items can be returned at any Anaheim Public Library branch. Most of the branches have book drops available near the entrance or in the parking lot.
Most materials can be borrowed for 21 days. New books or rentals may be subject to shorter loan periods.
New accounts are limited to 5 items at any one time (2 of which can be rental items) for the first 30 days. After the first month, a maximum of 35 items may be checked out at one time. The quantity of high demand and rental items may be limited. Audiobooks and eBooks don't count towards this total and don't accrue fees.
Most library materials may be renewed twice if there are no requests for the item. Rental materials such as videos and DVDs are not renewable.
As a courtesy, items eligible for renewal will automatically renew on the day they're due, extending their loan periods from their original due dates. If you are signed up for Anaheim Public Library email notices, borrowers receive a pre-overdue notification sent three days before the item is due.
You can renew your items 24 hours a day, seven days a week, by logging into your account or calling. You will need to have your library card number available.
You may check your account and renewal status for your materials in the following ways:
- By calling 714-765-1775
- Online Library Catalog (Click on My Account)
- In-person at the library
| Rental Type | Rental Fee | Borrowing Period |
| DVDs & Blu-rays | $1 or $2 | 2 days or 7 days |
| Videos | Free; 20¢ per day past 7 days | 7 days |
| CDs | Free; 20¢-25¢ per day past 21 days | 21 days |
| Video Games | $2; 25¢ per day past 7 days | 7 days |
Check your receipt or account online to know when your items are due back. We send overdue notifications as a courtesy. A lack of a notice does not absolve you of the responsibility for returning library materials and paying charges. The library refers delinquent accounts to a collection agency if not resolved within 60 days. If you'd like to receive email reminders before your items are due, be sure that we have your current email address listed on your account information page.
Books and free DVDs have a 20¢ per day overdue charge for every day past the due date. Rental items are charged additional rental fees of $1 or $2 per rental period. Charges are assessed on all lost, damaged or overdue items, both free and rental. Other service charges are outlined in the fines and fees schedule, including:
- Copies/printing, 15¢ per page for B&W; 50¢ per page for color
- Collection agency fee is $15.00
- Borrowing privileges are restricted when your account balance is $15 or more. Unpaid balances $40 or more will be referred to a collection agency. Accounts sent to a collection agency are charged a permanent and non-refundable fee of $15. You may pay your fees online here.
The charge for lost (not returned) items is the replacement cost of that item plus a non-refundable processing fee. The processing fee for most items is $5. Charges for slightly damaged library materials that can be repaired and continue to circulate are assessed according to the level of damage incurred. Items that are damaged beyond repair are charged the replacement cost of the item. After two years, unreturned materials will not be accepted, and the total cost will remain on your account.