Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Library Card

Is a library card free?

Yes, there is no cost to obtain a library card.

How do I get a library card?

To receive a Broward County Library Card, you need to fill out an application available at any branch and provide ID and residency information. Click here to apply online.

I want to receive information about holds via e-mail and not via telephone.  How can I add my e-mail address?

Click here to update your information with your e-mail address.

What forms of identification do I need to apply for a library card?

Click here to view forms of ID.

Can a non-resident obtain a Broward County Library card?  How much does it costs for non-residents?

Yes, non-residents can purchase a Broward County Library card that is valid for one year at a cost of $50.

Returning Materials 

Can I return items to any branch?

Yes. You can check out and return materials at any Broward County Library.

Loan Periods

How long can I check out book?

How long can a new movie be checked out for?

Do paperbooks have the same checkout time period as books?

What materials can be renewed?

What are the extended loan period costs?

Click here to view our materials page for check-out periods, late fees, and renewal periods.

Renewals and Holds

How do I renew materials?

You can renew materials at your local branch, by telephone at 954-357-7444, or on the website. Click here to see how to renew instantly online.

How do I put a hold on materials?

Click here to see how to place a hold online.

Items in the Collection

How can I find out when new library materials are added to the collection?

Broward County Library offers customers the ability to sign up for electronic lists of new materials to be e-mailed to customers.

Click here to find out how you can sign up for this service.

Click here to view the New Video List.

Click here to view the New Music List.

Click here to view the New Audiobook List.

How can I find a book?

The library's catalog can be searched via the web for materials.  Customers can search by subject, title, author, or keyword.  Click here to access the catalog online.

How can I search for movies/films on VHS or DVD?

Click here for instructions explaining how to search for movies on video and DVD.

What is the Visual Catalog?

The Visual Catalog is an online service allowing customers to search for materials through a word cloud method.  This form of searching gives customers the ability to type in a keyword and then the Visual catalog connects subjects and materials related to that search in a cloud-like view.  Click here to try this service.

How can I find reviews on library materials?

Click here to access Bookletters.

Computers

How do I use a computer at the library?

You must have a valid library card or provide a photo identification to obtain a temporary computer card.

I want to bring my laptop to the library.  How can I find out what libraries have wireless access?

Click here to view library locations with wireless internet access.

Do you have online databases?

Absolutely, we offer an extensive amount of free databases. Click here to access our databases. You will need to have your Broward County Library card available to use our databases outside of a library location.

Communication

How to I make a suggestion about a program or give feedback?

Click here to enter a suggestion in our E-Suggestion Box. You can also give feedback at any location with a Tell Us About Your Visit Form available at library locations.

How do I subscribe to the E-Newsletter?

Click here to subscribe to the E-Newsletter. Simply enter your name and e-mail address and you will be added to the mailing list.

How can I find out about improvements in the library system?

Click here to view the Service Improvement of the Month.

Sharing Resources

How can I find out more information about Interlibrary Loan/Resource Sharing?

Click here to find out more about Interlibrary Loan/Resource Sharing.

Careers/Employment/Jobs

How can I find a job or apply for a job at Broward County Library?

Click here to view www.broward.org/careers.

Volunteering

How do I volunteer at the Library?

Contact the library where you wish to volunteer for details. All volunteers regardless of age are subject to a Florida Department of Law Enforcement background check and must clear this background check before beginning volunteer service.

 

 

If you would like to suggest a FAQ, please click here to e-mail us.

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