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, except eBook readers. These MUST be returned to the location where they were borrowed.
• 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)
• Videocassettes, audiobooks, records, compact discs, and filmstrips should not be returned in any book drops. eBook readers MUST be returned to the location where they were borrowed.

Can I renew library materials?

• Most items may be renewed one time except for eBook readers, magazines, microfilm pamphlets, and reference materials.
• You may renew New Books and 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 Your Library Account on the Library’s web site.
• Enter your 14-digit library card number and last name.
• 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/Damaged items?

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

• You may purchase a card for $60.00 per year or for $20.00 per 3-month period.
• You must visit one of the Library’s 20 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 5 weekly bookmobile stops and 10 rotating locations at 3-week intervals.
• Click on Bookmobiles to see 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: 04/17/2008