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Frequently Asked Questions

Why didn’t I get an answer to my question?

We attempt to answer all questions but sometimes the email bounces back.  It is essential that we have a valid email address to send you an answer.  Before you submit your question, please verify that your email address is correct and in the correct format (e.g. xxx@yyy.com).  Replies can bounce because of incorrectly entered email addresses and because email from us is blocked by a firewall or email preferences (e.g. on AOL).

I have a suggestion or comment about the library.

We welcome your feedback through our feedback form.

How can I suggest a book, video, DVD, Cassette, or eBook be added to the collection?

Fill out the Book Title or Purchase Selection form.

How do I book a meeting room?

How do I get a library card?

How do I update my account?

You will need to contact one of our branches to update your account.  If your address has changed, you will need to bring proof of address with you to a branch.

What is my PIN?

You can use the Forget Your PIN? email form to have your PIN sent to your email address that is on your account.  If you do not have an email address on file, you will need to call or visit one of our branches to obtain your PIN.

I don’t have a PIN, how do I get one?

You can obtain one by visiting one of our branches.

Do you offer Interlibrary Loan service for items not owned by Harris County Public Library?

Yes, we can try to obtain item(s) for you on interlibrary loan (ILL); items must be 6 months past the publication date to do interlibrary loan. You can do Interlibrary Loan through any of our branches. Interlibrary Loan is a system where we check for the book, videos, DVDs, etc. in other library systems. The process takes a minimum of several weeks. It may take up to several weeks for the item to arrive. We do not have the capability of doing this online at this time.  For further information see the Interlibrary Loan Policy.

HCPL is also part of the TexShare (http://www.texshare.edu/) network through which you can check materials out from other participating Texas libraries. You can obtain a TexShare card at any of our branches. You will need your HCPL library card and proof of mailing address (e.g. drivers license, ID, or bill).

I want to do genealogical research, where can I do that?

The Harris County Public Library has basic information on beginning genealogy research including two genealogy databases. For more in depth information or help, please contact the Clayton Library – Center for Genealogical Research, a branch of the Houston Public Library.

Can you send me an obituary?

Unfortunately, the Harris County Public Library does not have the Houston Chronicle or the Houston Press on microfilm and we are therefore unable to provide obituaries.  Our neighboring system, the Houston Public Library does have both of these newspapers on microfilm. Like Harris County Public Library, they have an email reference service.

Can I get a list of items I've checked out in the past?

As soon as items are checked in the record is deleted (unless there are fines or the book is lost), so unfortunately we have no way of showing you what items you have checked out in the past.

I am writing a paper, how do I do the bibliography?

There are several guides online for the different bibliography formats:

We also have books on the topic.  The following are links to our catalog.

Still have a question? Ask a Librarian


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