Ask Us

Ask Us

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Search results are ordered based on the best match. The items at the top of the search results will be those that contain your exact search text, in the exact order you typed them (if you used more than one word). After exact matches, words in the title are given a priority, followed by author name, headings, and tags. Popular titles appear ahead of less popular ones.

    You can filter your search results by selecting from the headings on the left side of the page

  • A list is a collection of titles related to a specific topic or idea of your choosing. Best Italian CookbooksBest Travel Guides are examples of lists you could create. A good list is a curated topic guide. A list shouldn’t be just a group of titles by an author, since you can do that just by searching, or a list of titles you want to borrow, since you have a For Later shelf for that.

  • Your shelves gather in one place all the titles you’ve read, watched or listened to (Completed), are currently reading, watching or listening to (In Progress), or want to borrow in the future (For Later).

    You have these shelves and there is no limit to the number of items you can put on a shelf. 

    This will replace the My Lists functionalities from previous catalog. 

  • A username is a name that you can use instead of your barcode to login to your account.

  • You can login to Mobile Prinitng and upload documents anytime, but you will only be able to print and pick-up printed items during library hours. Check our locations page for hours. 

    IMPORTANT NOTE: Uploaded documents will be stored online for 24 hours. If you are unable to come to the library to have your items printed within 24 hours, you must re-upload them. You will not be charged for unprinted uploads.

  • CHANGES TO PRINTING & COPYING AT HCPL

    To ensure our libraries' security, copy card dispensers have been removed from all Harris County Public Library branches. The library is working toward a replacement system that meets the needs of our patrons.

    Printing and copying are available, please visit or contact any HCPL branch location for assistance.

    NOTE: Printing and copying costs may vary at the LSC - CyFair Branch Library, LSC - Tomball Community Library, Harris County Law Library, and Texas Medical Center Library.

    • Click on Log In/My Account on the upper right of your screen. 
    • Then click on the Log in/Register button
    • Enter your library card number and PIN/password. 

    The first time you log in, you will be prompted to create a user name. After that, you will be able to log in with your user name and PIN. 

    Watch a YouTube video to learn about your account.

  • HCPL offers five different types of library cards including 1) the full-service Knowledge Card available with application and proof of residency at all HCPL branch locations, 2) the iKnow Digital Access Card (signing up online for Harris County residents) that gives you instant access to all of our online resources like eBooks, and streaming video, 3) the Enhanced+ Library Card that is a full-service library card and verified photo ID in one, 4) Military Library Card for active duty military personnel and 5) Texshare Card. Visit our My Account & Library Cards page to find the card that is right for you. 

  • Tools are available for borrowing from two HCPL branches: Evelyn Meador Branch Library in Seabrook and Baldwin Boettcher Branch Library @ Mercer Park in north Harris County.

    Tools available at Baldwin Boettcher Branch Library

    Tools Available at Evelyn Meador Branch Library 

    Tools include:

    • Cultivators
    • Gloves
    • Hoes
    • Kneeling pads
    • Loppers
    • Pruners
    • Rakes
    • Shears
    • Shovels 
    • Spades
    • Trowels
    • Weeders
    • Wheelbarrows
  • All of our tutors are volunteers and may not have the skills and knowledge needed to help you meet your reading goals. We can, however, put you in touch with other groups who might fit your needs better. Call (713) 274-6600 for more information.  

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Need help with your account? Have questions about:

  • Downloading eBooks and other digital services
  • Finding information or research
  • Requesting books, movies, and music
  • Using our website

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