SAPL: About the Library - Services

Borrower Services

Loan Period

Circulation Limits

• You may have a maximum of 50 items checked out on your card at any one time in any combination of the following:

Where can I return library materials?

• Items checked out from any San Antonio Public Library may be returned to the Central Library or any branch.
• Book drops are available at the Central Library and branches. A videocassette drop is available at the Central Library only. (located next to the book drop)

Can I renew library materials?

• Most items may be renewed one time except for magazines, microfilm pamphlets, and reference materials.
• You may renew media items once as long as no holds are placed on the items.
• You may renew items by bringing them into the library or by accessing Your Library Account on the Library’s web site.
• You may renew items by telephone.  Now you can check due dates, renew books, check your holds, and more just by using your telephone.  Call 207-6121 (or if you're out of town call toll free at 866-432-8950) to access the San Antonio Public Library's automated phone system.

Can I place holds on materials?

• You may place a HOLD on an item free of charge from any library terminal, or over the Web by clicking Catalog on the Library’s web page.
• You may select the library location where you want the item sent.
• You will be notified by mail when the item is available for pick-up.
• If you need help with the HOLD services, please contact library staff at (210) 207-2500 who will assist you or place the hold for you.

Where can I find information about my library account?

• You have access to your personal library record by clicking My Account on the Library’s web site.
• Enter your last name and your 14-digit library card number.
• You may review items currently checked out on your library card, overdue and lost items, and outstanding fines.
• You may renew items and review the status of titles you have placed on hold.
• You may cancel holds on items you no longer need.

What is a Teacher’s Card?

• Any teacher, registered daycare provider, student teacher, or home school instructor who resides in Bexar County and can provide photo identification and proof of current address is eligible for a Teacher’s Card in addition to his/her personal card.
• This card may be used to borrow up to 35 books for 6 weeks for classroom use.
• Persons living outside Bexar County are not eligible for Teacher’s Cards.

Overdue Fines
Borrowing privileges will be denied if customers have....

• 5 or more items overdue
• $10.00 (adults) and $6.00 (children) or more overdue fines and charges.

Lost Uncataloged Materials or Withdrawn Damaged Materials

• Replacement items (in good condition) of the same type accepted in lieu of payments listed below.
• Payments on lost items will be assessed a $5 non-refundable processing fee in addition to the list price.
• All refunds will be issued by mailed check to be received within 7-10 business days of refund request.

Lost Cataloged Materials or Withdrawn Damaged Materials

• Payments on lost items will be assessed a $5 non-refundable processing fee in addition to the list price.
• All refunds will be issued by mailed check to be received within 7-10 business days of refund request.

Can I get a library card if I live outside Bexar County?

• You may purchase a card for $100.00 per year or $30.00 per 3-month period.
• You must visit one of the Library’s locations to complete the Application for Borrower’s Privileges and show appropriate identification such as a Texas Driver’s License or other photo ID.

Does the Library provide bookmobile services?

• The Library provides 8 rotating locations at 3-week intervals.
• Locations and hours for all bookmobile stops.

Does the Library provide a Books-by-Mail service?

• The Library provides a Books-by-Mail service to Bexar County residents who are unable to visit a library due to a physical disability or are principally homebound for other reasons.
• You may call (210) 207-2500 for information on the special Homebound User card.
• Homebound Users may be required to submit certification of their disability or homebound status.

Posted/Updated: 05/22/2009