Benefits
Books and More: A Free Library of Philadelphia Library Card is your ticket to taking the library home with you. Use your library card to check out our books. Most locations have Blu-Rays/DVDs, Audiobooks, CDs, and Magazines, too!Electronic Resources
We subscribe to over 150 internet databases and services. Many of these resources are available to Free Library card holders at home or work. Check out electronic books, read magazine articles, and search for health information from any computer with an Internet connection. See what you might be missing from your online searching.
Homework Help Online
Students of all ages can use live homework online. This free service provides trained tutors in Math, Science, English and Social Studies.
Reserves
If the book you want is not on the shelf when you visit your library, first see your librarian for assistance. You may be able to reserve it. You can also reserve books online with your library card number and pin through our online catalog.
Renewals
Many items can be renewed. Login to My Account with your library card number and PIN and select the items you wish to renew or call our automated telephone system at 215-686-5407. You may also call the library where you borrowed the books. Have your library card and the items you wish to renew handy.
If you are unable to renew your items, it is likely for one of the following reasons: 1) There is an overdue item on your account, 2) Your item has already been renewed ten times, 3) Another patron has placed a hold on the item, 4) You owe the Free Library $5.00 or more, 5) The item is a special loan, summer loan, or from Interlibrary Loan.
If one of these reasons does not apply to your situation, please contact our librarians for further assistance.
Access Pennsylvania
Your Free Library of Philadelphia Library Card can be used to borrow items from many libraries all over Pennsylvania through the Access Pennsylvania program. Policies vary from library to library.
Interlibrary Loan
If we do not own the book or magazine article you want, our Interlibrary Loan Department will try to obtain it from another library. Use our online Interlibrary Loan Service, ask your local librarian for assistance, or call 686-5360 for this service.