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Within our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) below, you'll find answers to some of the most common questions we receive. If you don’t find what you’re looking for, we are easy to reach.

Text us at 317-333-6877 or select a topic on the contact form below. You can also call any branch for immediate assistance during regular business hours. Check out our locations page for phone numbers and hours. Thank you for looking to The Indianapolis Public Library for answers to your questions.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is my PIN?

The default PIN is the last four digits of your Indianapolis Public Library card. If you have changed your PIN or the last four digits do not work, you may reset your PIN in the “My Account” section of our website or visit any Library location and ask a staff member for help.

What is my library card number?

Your Indianapolis Public Library card number can be found on the back of your Library card or key fob. If you do not know your username or library card number, visit any Library location and ask a staff member for help. Your library card number can also be found using the “My Account” section of our website, if you have a username other than your library card number. Once you have clicked on “My Account,” login into your account. Using the navy dropdown menu on the right side of the screen, click “My Settings.” You may then display your barcode.

How do I use e-resources

Please visit e-Book & Streaming Help for detailed information about how to use our digital collections and get ideas to make the most of your library card at home. For help using OverDrive/Libby, one of our digital resource apps, you may get help from any Indianapolis Public Library staff member or use online Overdrive/Libby support.

How do I get a new library card or renew my library card?

To obtain a new library card or renew an existing library card, visit any library branch or in some cases, apply online. See the requirements for getting a new library card or renewing an existing library card. To apply for a library card in person you will need a photo ID and proof of address. If your address is current on your photo ID, you only need to bring this in. If your address is not current on your photo ID, you may instead bring a piece of mail or online bill with your current address that is from the last 30 days to show proof of address.

If you are unable to visit the Library in person due to physical restrictions, please contact any of our locations and staff will assist you.

Why don’t you have this book/material in this format?

We may be unable to get material due to a variety of reasons, including publisher restrictions. You may suggest that we purchase an item in a specific format using our suggestion for purchase form.

Can books be returned to a different branch than the one they were checked out from?

Yes, all materials can be returned to any Indianapolis Public Library location.

Can I get an Indianapolis Public Library Card if I do not live in Indianapolis? 

If you do not live in Marion County but want to use the Indianapolis Public Library system and live in the State of Indiana, you may pay for a Public Library Access Card (PLAC). The cost of a PLAC card is determined each year by the State of Indiana. You may obtain a PLAC card at any Indiana public library. We currently do not offer a card to out-of-state residents.

Do you accept donations of items/materials?

Our Indy Library Store gladly accepts donations of your gently used books and select other materials. Learn what items we accept and how to donate.

Can you help me with genealogy or help me find an obituary?

We offer many resources for helping with genealogical research and finding obituaries. You can get information online on our website, use the microfilm machines at Central Library, use the library edition of Ancestry.com at any of our locations, or use our Ask-A-Librarian form for specific questions.

How do I change where I receive materials? 

You can update or change your default pickup location through the “My Account” section of our website. Visit the following page in your account to choose your pickup location.

How do I place an item on hold?

You may request to have an item delivered to your preferred location by asking a staff member in person, or calling any Library location to place a hold, or place a hold online at “My Account.” If the material you want to request is not available in our catalog, please contact us about an Interlibrary Loan.

How do I set up My Account?

On the home page, click “My Account” and a drop-down menu will unfurl. Then, click “login” and this will take you to a different page. Here, type in your username and PIN. Your username will be the full barcode on the back of your card for your first login. You will then be prompted to create a username. Your username can be anything you choose and can be changed again later if necessary.

How do I pause my holds?

Log into your account and then go to the “On Hold” section. On the right side of the item, there is a button labeled “pause hold.” A calendar will pop up and from there you can choose a future date. This will keep you in the line for the item but will not deliver it to you until after the date you’ve chosen.

What is a PLAC?

PLAC stands for Public Library Access Card. If you do not live in Marion Country, but still want to use the IndyPL system, you can pay a yearly state-set fee. Paying for a PLAC means you can also access any library in the state of Indiana. To do this, you will need to visit each library separately to obtain that system’s card.

To learn more about it you can visit the State Library website.

​ How do I print from mobile?

The library has a mobile printing service you can use from your own computer or mobile device. You can send your files to a Library printer before you even arrive at your local branch.

You can print emails, documents, photos, boarding passes, and more. Print directly from a library computer or use your smartphone, tablet, home computer, or laptop to send a mobile print request.

Printing Costs

  • Black and White = $0.15 per page
  • Color = $0.25 per page

Learn more about our mobile printing service.

What is an Interlibrary Loan (ILL)?

An interlibrary loan is a book that comes from another library system. If The Indianapolis Public Library does not have a particular book, you can check WorldCat to see if other libraries carry it. If one or more does, fill out a request form on our Interlibrary Loan page. It is important to note that you cannot have fees or overdue books to request this service.

What is Libby?

Libby is a free app you can use to enjoy e-books, digital audiobooks, and magazines using your Indianapolis Public Library card. You can stream titles with Wi-Fi or mobile data, or download them for offline use and read anytime, anywhere. All you need to get started is a library card. Learn how to use Libby and all of the digital services available using your library card.

How can I reserve a study room?

Study rooms are available at many of our locations. You may make a study room reservation in person or you may make a study room reservation online. You will need to provide your full name when reserving a study room. When you arrive to use the room, you will need to show your library card or other ID. Learn more about the reservation process and the study rooms that are available.

Can I find out about library events and get reading recommendations in email?

You can get regular updates on Library news and events, reading recommendations, and alerts about our newest books, movies, and music delivered right to your inbox! Learn more and select the email newsletters you would like to receive.

Mailing Address

The Indianapolis Public Library
P.O. Box 211
Indianapolis, IN 46206-0211

Phone Numbers

Library Main: 317-275-4100
Renew Materials: 317-275-4441

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