Self-Service vs. Staff-Assistance

• Access the online catalog. 
• Contact your local branch.
• Download the library's mobile app.
• Use Library Elf.

What is a PIN?

It's a 4-digit number required to access your library account through the online catalog or mobile app.

Forgot your PIN?

You can visit a branch, use Live Chat, or reset it through the online catalog.

To reset your PIN online, a preferred email address must be on file with the library. Be sure to reset your PIN within an hour of receiving the confirmation email; otherwise, you'll need to restart the process.  

No email address on file? Contact a branch or use Live Chat for assistance.

Can you change your PIN? 

Yes, you can reset your PIN. You will need your current PIN to do so. Simply go to the online catalog, navigate to My Information, and then select Change Logon.

When will I receive notices?

Receive notifications when a hold is ready for pickup, when checked-out items are due within one day, when items become overdue, and when a fine is owed. The caller ID will display the number (337) 721-7116. If the message is cut off at the beginning, it will repeat. 

Set notification preferences directly within the catalog.

Log in to My Account with your library card number and PIN. Then, go to the "My Information" tab and scroll down to the "Contact Information and Preferences" section. Make your changes under the "Preferences" section and click the "Submit Change Request" button.

When will I receive notices?

Receive notifications when a hold is ready for pickup, when checked-out items are due within one day, when items are overdue, when a bill notice is issued, and thirty days before your library card expires. If your email address is on file with the library, you can edit it under "My Information" in the online catalog.

Set your notification preferences directly within the catalog.

Log in to My Account with your library card number and PIN. Next, go to the "My Information" tab and scroll to the "Contact Information and Preferences" section. Make your changes in the "Preferences" section and click the "Submit Change Request" button.

When will I receive notices?

Receive notifications when a hold is ready for pickup, when checked-out items are due within one day, when items are overdue, when bill notices are issued, and thirty days before your library card expires.

How to turn notices on or off?

Opt-in or opt-out by either contacting your local branch or DIY in the online catalog. 

To update your notification preferences, log in to My Account using your library card number and PIN. Once logged in, go to the "My Information" tab and scroll down to the "Contact Information and Preferences" section. In the "Preferences" area, use the drop-down menu under "My preference for receiving library notices" to select your preferred method of communication. Choose TXT Messaging to opt in to text notifications, or select Email Address or Phone 1 to opt out or choose another method. When you're finished, click the "Submit Change Request" button to save your changes.

Full Messaging Terms and Conditions

• Calcasieu Parish Public Library occasionally contacts registered patrons via SMS or Text Messaging. Personal information will not be shared with third parties for marketing purposes.
• The types of messages the library may send includes but is not limited to customer care/account notifications.
• Message frequency may vary. For examples of possible notices, review the section above for "When do I receive notices?"
• Message and data rates may apply.
• For support, use the Contact Us form or call your local library branch. (Updates to our texting service will allow patrons to text HELP to get information more quickly.)
• To opt-out, text STOP to cancel or follow the directions above.
• Failure to receive a library account notice does not waive patron responsibility for the timely return of library materials.

In accordance with Act 436-SB 7, a parent or guardian must choose the appropriate library card for their child or young adult. Refer to the Circulation Policy.

Online library resources accessed outside the library branch are not content-filtered, so it’s important to monitor your child’s access accordingly.

By signing the library card application, you agree to take responsibility for your child’s selection of materials and to cover any charges for damaged, lost, or overdue items checked out on the library card.

Renew Your Account

Expired accounts must be renewed in person at a branch. Bring proof of address and a photo ID for verification. Library cards expire every five years to ensure we have the most current information on file.

Exceptions include: Temporary accounts which are valid for three months. Libraries Southwest cardholders should contact their home parish library for further details. 

Outstanding Balances

Outstanding balances must be paid before accounts can be renewed or items checked out. All associated accounts must also be free of fines. Payments can be made at any branch or through our online payment service. 

Report a lost card immediately to any branch. If you do not report it, you will be responsible for all items checked out on that card. A replacement card incurs a fee of $0.50.

Blocked card

If a user owes $25 or more. This may include lost items on account or accrued fines of $25 or more. Until fees are cleared, you will not be able to check out items or access various library services, including computer use. Users may use the online payment service. 

Barred card

For more details, please contact Library Administration at (337) 721-7147. Blocked or barred users must visit a local branch to resolve their account before renewing an expired library card. 

NOTE: Users who are blocked or barred due to outstanding fines must visit a local branch in person to resolve their accounts.

If you do not meet the requirements to register for a Calcasieu Parish Library card, alternative options are available.

Through the Library Southwest Reciprocal Borrower's Agreement, you may be eligible to obtain library cards at other participating parish libraries. For information on participating parish accounts, please visit the Library Southwest page or ask branch staff for assistance.

Many items can be renewed up to 2 times, provided no one else is waiting for them. Renewals are automatically processed 2 days before the due date, unless there’s a waiting list. Each item can be renewed a maximum of 2 times. For exceptions and additional information, please refer to this chart. eContent renewal policies may vary by vendor. 

Additional Renewal Options

Visit or contact a branch, or use Live Chat for assistance. Please have your library card and the items (e.g., books) ready. You can also access your account through the online catalog under 'My Account - Checkouts' or via our mobile app. If we have your email address on file, you’ll receive a notification 3 days before any items become overdue.

Items can be returned to any branch, regardless of where they were originally checked out. Please place items in the designated return areas or drop boxes. If returning after hours, use one of our drop boxes.

Exceptions: Laptops, iPads, hotspots, cake pans, American Girl BeForever Dolls, and sensory backpacks cannot be returned in drop boxes.

A courtesy email is sent two days before an item is due. If the item is not returned by the due date, an overdue notice will be sent the following day. A second overdue notice will be issued when the item is one week overdue.

When items are fifteen days overdue, a bill for the replacement cost will be sent to the cardholder. Borrowing privileges will be blocked for cardholders with items fifteen days overdue until the items are returned.

Cardholders will be billed the replacement cost of materials based on the item's price at the time of purchase.

How to Place Holds in the Catalog

Log in to the catalog, search for your desired item, click/tap place hold, choose the desired pickup library, then click Submit Request.

Available Holds

We have an automated system that will notify you when your items are ready for pickup. You can opt-in for text (SMS) notifications, which will include alerts for holds, bills, and overdue materials. Sign up via the online catalog under My Account > My Information.

With a valid email address on file, we will also notify you when your hold is available. While there is no limit on the number of holds you can place, there is a limit on the number of items you can check out. You may suspend your hold by asking staff or using the mobile app.

Holds are typically kept for five days. If you need an extension, please contact the pickup branch for assistance.

Privacy

State laws on confidentiality prevent the library from allowing anyone other than the cardholder to pick up items on hold, unless you grant permission for someone else to do so. This permission must be recorded in our system. For assistance, please check with staff.

eBooks or audiobooks - OverDrive

You can have up to 10 holds per library card. This includes any items you've recommended, items currently on hold, and holds that are available but not yet checked out.

We are Fine Free!    

Exceptions: Devices, device peripherals, and other in-demand, high-cost items such as hotspots, laptops, American Girl BeForever Dolls, outdoor games, and backpacks are not fine-free. Refer to the exceptions chart below.

Late fees do not accrue during holidays or emergency closures.

Payment Options:

Visit a branch or use our online payment service. 

Exceptions:

Laptops, hotspots, iPads, Backpacks, and American Girl BeForever Dolls

There is no grace period. A $25 charge will be applied for returning items in the book drop. Additional fees may apply for items that require repair or are damaged.

Special Collections include outdoor games, sensory backpacks, jigsaw puzzles, litter pickup tools.

Desktop view: Access the online catalog then refer to the sidebar on the left-hand side of the screen to view the Special Collections section.

Mobile view: Access the online catalog then scroll to the bottom of the screen to find the Special Collections section.