Frequently Asked Questions

 

What are your hours?

See this page for branch library hours and locations.

What's your phone number?

832-393-1313

Who works at the library?

Librarians, who have Master's degrees in Library Science; Library Specialists, who have Bachelor's degrees in various subjects; Library Assistants, who have high school diplomas; Volunteers, who donate their time to the library. These are the primary people you'll see working at the library, but there are also many people who work behind the scenes. Without these people, our computers wouldn't work, books wouldn't arrive, our toilets would be dirty, and our electricty would get turned off when the bill wasn't paid.

How can I volunteer at the library?

If you'd like to volunteer at the library and are at least 12 years old, please call our volunteer office at 832-393-1481.

How old do you have to be to get a library card? How much does it cost?

You can get a library card at any age, but you will need the signature of a parent or guardian if you're under 18. Our library card is free if you live in Texas.

How many books am I allowed to check out?

Up to 50.

What can I check out other than books?

We have videos in both DVD and VHS formats, music CDs, audio books on cassette and CD, CD-ROMs, and comic books. There is a limit of 10 videocassettes, 5 DVDs, 10 music CDs, and 5 CD-ROMs per library card.

Do you have video games at the library?

Not yet...but we will soon! You can also access many games for free using the Internet.

How long can I keep a book I check out?

Two weeks. However, you can also renew the book twice.

How much do you charge if books are late?

For children's materials, late fees are 10 cents per day. Late charges for adult materials are 20 cents a day.

How are books arranged?

Fiction books are alphabetized by the author's last name. Nonfiction books are arranged numerically by their call numbers. The Houston Public Library uses the Dewey Decimal System to create call numbers for nonfiction books. Learn how the Dewey Decimal System works here.

When is storytime?

Storytime will be available at the Central Library Children's Room once the Central Library is finished being renovated and reopens to the public. There are weekly storytimes at branch libraries across the city.

Do you have something to help with a science project?

Yes, see this page for links to online science fair ideas. We also have thousands of books with ideas for science fair projects Visit your local library to see some of these books. You can find these books and place holds on them using our online catalog, too.

Do you have something to help with a history fair project?

Yes, we have thousands of books with ideas for history fair projects. Visit your local library to see some of these books. You can find these books and place holds on them using our online catalog, too.

What is a hold?

A hold tells us to set a book aside for you so it will be available when you come to the library. You can use the computer to place a hold, or you can ask a librarian to place a hold for you. When the book arrives at your library, you'll get an e-mail or a letter by regular mail. You have ten days after the book gets to your library to pick it up.

Why would I place a hold?

For a few reasons: your library doesn't own the book and you'd like another library branch to send a copy, or you want to get a copy of a new book when it arrives, or all the copies of the book are checked out and you want to get a copy when it's returned.

I have a report due. When should I start looking for books?

As soon as you receive the assignment! If you wait too long, your classmates may check out all the books on your subject. If you can, try to come to the library before you choose your subject. That way you can make sure we have books about the subject before the assignment is due.

I have to cite sources for my report. How do I do that?

This site has information about citing sources.

Do you have AR books?

We do have some, but you'll need a list of the AR books your school uses. We can help you find out which books from your school's list we own.

What do you need to use the computer in the library?

You can log into library computers using your library card number. If you don't have a library card, or you don't have it with you, ask a library staff member to log you in using a guest number.

Can I make copies at the library? How much do they cost?

Yes, you can make copies at the library for 15 cents.

Can I print pages from the Internet? Do you have color printing? How much do they cost?

Yes, you can print pages from the Internet for 15 cents a page, but we don't have color printers.

Do you have books about everything?

Not really. There are some subjects that don't have whole books written about them. If we don't have a book about the subject you need, ask a librarian for help finding information in other places.

What is Summer Reading Club?

Every summer the library gives prizes for reading to kids 18 and under. In past summers, prizes have included free tickets to Astros games, coupons for free food from Pizza Hut and McDonald's, and much more! Sign up at your local library branch beginning June 1.

When is Summer Reading Club?

Summer Reading Club begins on June 1 and ends on August 1.

What do you have to help study for the TAKS?

We have online practice tests, for TAKS and other standardized tests, available here. There are also book study guides for the TAKS. Use the online catalog or ask a librarian to help you find these.

Can I drop my child off at the library for the whole day?

This is strongly discouraged. Children under 7 may not be unsupervised in the library at any time. Library staff cannot be responsible for unattended children of any age.

When does the library have used book sales?

The Friends of the Library has a large book sale every year. Usually it is held in late March or early April. They also hold a sale just for children's books in the Fall. In addition, many of our branch libraries have ongoing book sales throughout the year. This site has more information on the Friends of the Library book sales.

How do I get homework help?

You can get homework help online from a real live tutor here. Live Homework Help is available every day from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. Ayuda Escolar en Vivo disponible lunes – jueves, 3 p.m. – 9 p.m.