Library Card and Account Services

Card Application and Account Management

Learn how to apply for a library card and manage your account, including updating your PIN. Find out what to do if your card has expired or is lost. Choose your preferred notification method—phone, email, or text.

Learn what you need to checkout items, how to renew items, place holds and track their status, find out which materials have fines, explore our special collections, and check borrowing limits and loan periods for both physical and digital resources—including eBooks.

Eligibility Requirements, Usage Policy and Privacy Policy

Card Eligibility
Available to anyone who lives, works, owns property, or attends school in Calcasieu Parish. Library cards can be used at any CPPL branch and provide access to a wide range of resources.

Does Not Meet Eligibility
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 from other participating parish libraries. For details on participating parish accounts, please visit the Library Southwest page or contact branch staff for assistance.

Library Card Usage Policy
For a detailed explanation of guidelines and limits regarding library card accounts, including accounts for patrons ages 17 and younger, checkout limits, and expectations for borrowing items, please refer to the Circulation Policy. (PDF, 434 KB)

PRIVACY POLICY NOTICE
In accordance with the Privacy Policy, (PDF, 141 KB) any collected patron information stored in registration records and other patron files will only be used to fulfill patrons’ service needs and are strictly limited to use for Library business. Information about patrons and patrons’ transactions will not be made available to any unauthorized individual. Personal information and mobile numbers collected through opt-in will not be shared, sold or rented with third parties for marketing purposes. For questions or concerns about privacy or information use, please contact Library Administration.

Apply for a Card and Manage Your Account

Library card designs with text “Apply for a Library Card.”

NOTE: If you previously had a physical card but can't locate it, visit or contact a branch to check if you're eligible for a replacement.

Full-Service Accounts

Visit a branch with proof of identification to receive a physical library card, which can be used at all branches. With your card, you can check out and place holds on physical items. Library cards expire every 5 years.

Online-Only Accounts

Online accounts provide access to the online catalog, mobile app, and various resources. These accounts expire every 5 years, do not include a physical card, and offer limited services. For example, the Interlibrary Loan service is not available. Note: If you are 18 years or older, you may apply for an online-only library account.

Card Expiration

Full-service accounts (including online-only accounts, but excluding temporary accounts) expire every five years to help us keep your information current.

All expired accounts must be renewed in person at one of our branches.

For additional information, please refer to the Card Status section under Library Card Info and Status.

Lost Card

If your card is lost, report it immediately.

If you do not report a lost card, all items checked out on that card remain the responsibility of the cardholder.

There is a $0.50 replacement fee.

Manage Account

Self-Service vs. Staff Assistance

Library users can access services in two ways: independently or with staff support. Choose the method that best suits your needs.

Self-Service Options
Visit the library's online catalog. Select Log In, then enter your library card number and PIN.

Download the library’s mobile app for convenient access to your account, catalog searches, and digital resources.

Use Library Elf to manage holds, due dates, and notifications.

Staff-Assisted Services
If you need help or prefer assistance, please contact your local library branch. Staff are available to support users with disabilities and can help with catalog searches, account access, and more.

PIN Information

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.

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.

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

Notifications

Phone

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. View 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

Email

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. View 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.

Text

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.

Library Card Info and Status

Parents and Legal Guardians

Responsibility Disclaimer
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. (PDF, 434 KB) 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.

Expired Card
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 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.

Lost Card
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 Account
If a user owes $25 or more in fees—they will be blocked from checking out materials and accessing various library services, including computer use. To resolve this, users must pay down their balance. Users may use the online payment service.

Suspended Account
For more details, please contact Library Administration at (337) 721-7147. Suspended users must visit a local branch to resolve their account.

Non Parish Residents

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.

Have questions about borrowing, holds, or other services?

All content below is on a separate webpage.

Library Material

Renewing Material

Many items can be renewed up to two times, as long as no one else has placed a hold on them. Renewals are automatically processed two days before the due date, unless there is a waiting list. Each item is limited to a maximum of two renewals. For exceptions and additional details, please refer to these renewal policy charts. Note that eContent renewal policies may vary depending on the 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.

Returning Material

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.

Lost Material

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.

Holds

How to Place Holds in the Catalog
Log in to the catalog, search for your desired item, choose place hold, choose the desired pickup library, then choose 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.

Fines and Fees

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. To pay fines, you may visit a branch or use our online payment service.

Exceptions to Fine Free Policy

American Girl BeForever Dolls have a daily fine of $0.25, with a maximum fine of $5.
Take-home laptops or iPads have a daily fine of $10, with a maximum fine of $70.
Hotspots have a daily fine of $5, with a maximum fine of $35.
In-library laptops at Central and Iowa Branches have a daily fine of $5 per hour, with a maximum fine of $45.
Sensory Backpacks have a daily fine of $0.25 and a maximum fine of $5. Replacement costs vary by backpack type if lost or damaged.
Laptop or Charger kiosks have a daily fine of $5 hourly, with a maximum fine of $45.

Special Collections

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.

Checkout Instructions, Limits, and Loan Times

How to Checkout Items

Bring your library card and item(s) to a staff member.

Alternatives: Use the self-check machines at the Central Library [library card and PIN required] or use the built-in card option in our mobile app.

Checkout Limits and Times

Refer to the chart below for checkout limits for adults, teens, children, and juvenile collection only.

Please note that eContent (eBooks, etc.) has different limits for checkout, download/streaming, and holds. See the chart for specifics.

Library Southwest, temporary, and internet user accounts may have different limits.

Adults

Teens

Children

Juvenile Collection Only

Adults: Checkout (Borrowing) Limits, Times, and Renewal Limits

Binge Box items have a checkout limit of 3, a 1-week borrowing period, can be renewed twice, and allow up to 6 holds at a time.

Blu-Ray items have a checkout limit of 20, a 1-week borrowing period, and can be renewed twice.

Book (includes VOX book) items have a checkout limit of 50, a 2-week borrowing period, and can be renewed twice.

Book and CD items have a checkout limit of 10, a 2-week borrowing period, and can be renewed twice.

Book on CD items have a checkout limit of 20, a 2-week borrowing period, and can be renewed twice.

Cake Pan items have a checkout limit of 3, a 2-week borrowing period, and can be renewed twice.

CD have a checkout limit of 20 (music), a 2-week borrowing period, and can be renewed twice.

DVD items have a checkout limit of 20, a 1-week borrowing period, and can be renewed twice.

Doll (American Girl BeForever) items have a checkout limit of 1, a 2-week borrowing period, cannot be renewed, and have a daily fine of $0.25 and a maximum fine of $5.

Game items have a checkout limit of 3, a 2-week borrowing period, and can be renewed twice.

Hotspot (T-Mobile Test Drive) items have a checkout limit of 1, a 1-week borrowing period, cannot be renewed, have a daily fine of $5 with a maximum fine of $35, and require a valid ID or driver's license; borrowers must reside in Calcasieu Parish with matching address in library database and must sign the Guidelines and Agreement Waiver. (PDF, 108 KB)

Interlibrary Loan items have a checkout limit of 50, a 2-week borrowing period, may be renewed twice, are subject to a combined limit on holds and checkouts, and carry a $50 fee for lost or damaged materials.

Kit items have a checkout limit of 10, a 2-week borrowing period, and can be renewed twice.

Laptop or Charger kiosk items have a checkout limit of 1, a 2-hour borrowing period, cannot be renewed, have an hourly fine of $5 and a maximum of $45, and require a valid library card in hand; eligible patrons include LSW Calcasieu Adult and Homebound Adult cardholders.

Laptop items have a checkout limit of 1, a 1-week borrowing period, cannot be renewed, have a daily fine of $10 and a maximum fine of $70, and require a valid ID or driver’s license; borrowers must reside in Calcasieu Parish with a matching address in the library database, and eligible patrons include LSW Calcasieu Adult and Homebound Adult cardholders.

Launchpad items have a checkout limit of 3, a 2-week borrowing period, and can be renewed twice.

Magazine items have a checkout limit of 20, a 2-week borrowing period, and can be renewed twice.

Paperback items have a checkout limit of 50, a 2-week borrowing period, and can be renewed twice.

Playaway items have a checkout limit of 10, a 2-week borrowing period, and can be renewed twice.

Puzzle items have a checkout limit of 1, a 1-week borrowing period, and cannot be renewed.

Sensory Backpack items have a checkout limit of 1, a 2-week borrowing period, can be renewed twice, and have a daily fine of $0.25 and a maximum fine of $5.

Talking Book items have a checkout limit of 50, a 2-week borrowing period, and can be renewed twice.

View items have a checkout limit of 3, a 2-week borrowing period, and can be renewed twice.

Teens: Checkout (Borrowing) Limits, Times, and Renewal Limits

Child: Checkout (Borrowing) Limits, Times, and Renewal Limits

Binge Box items have a checkout limit of 1, a 1-week borrowing period, can be renewed once, and allow up to 2 holds at a time.

Blu-Ray items have a checkout limit of 5*, a 1-week borrowing period, and can be renewed twice.
* Child cardholders may check out a total of 5 Blu-ray and DVD items combined—not 5 of each format.

Book (includes VOX book) items have a checkout limit of 25, a 2-week borrowing period, and can be renewed twice.

Book and CD items have a checkout limit of 10, a 2-week borrowing period, and can be renewed twice.

Book on CD items have a checkout limit of 10, a 2-week borrowing period, and can be renewed twice.

Cake Pan items have a checkout limit of 3, a 2-week borrowing period, and can be renewed twice.

CD have a checkout limit of 10 (music), a 2-week borrowing period, and can be renewed twice.

DVD items have a checkout limit of 5*, a 1-week borrowing period, and can be renewed twice.
* Child cardholders may check out a total of 5 Blu-ray and DVD items combined—not 5 of each format.

Doll (American Girl BeForever) items have a checkout limit of 1, a 2-week borrowing period, cannot be renewed, and have a daily fine of $0.25 and a maximum fine of $5.

Game items have a checkout limit of 3, a 2-week borrowing period, and can be renewed twice.

Hotspot (T-Mobile Test Drive) items cannot be checked out.

Interlibrary Loan items have a checkout limit of 10, a 2-week borrowing period, may be renewed twice, are subject to a combined limit on holds and checkouts, and carry a $50 fee for lost or damaged materials.

Kit items have a checkout limit of 10, a 2-week borrowing period, and can be renewed twice.

Laptop or Charger kiosk items cannot be checked out.

Laptop items cannot be checked out.

Launchpad items have a checkout limit of 3, a 2-week borrowing period, and can be renewed twice.

Magazine items have a checkout limit of 20, a 2-week borrowing period, and can be renewed twice.

Paperback items have a checkout limit of 25, a 2-week borrowing period, and can be renewed twice.

Playaway items have a checkout limit of 10, a 2-week borrowing period, and can be renewed twice.

Puzzle items have a checkout limit of 1, a 1-week borrowing period, and cannot be renewed.

Sensory Backpack items have a checkout limit of 1, a 2-week borrowing period, and can be renewed twice.

Talking Book items have a checkout limit of 25, a 2-week borrowing period, and can be renewed twice.

View items have a checkout limit of 3, a 2-week borrowing period, and can be renewed twice.

Juvenile Collection Only: Checkout (Borrowing) Limits, Times, and Renewal Limits

Binge Box items have a checkout limit of 1, a 1-week borrowing period, can be renewed once, and allow up to 2 holds at a time.

Blu-Ray items have a checkout limit of 5*, a 1-week borrowing period, and can be renewed twice.
* Juvenile Only cardholders may check out a total of 5 Blu-ray and DVD items combined—not 5 of each format.

Book (includes VOX book) items have a checkout limit of 25, a 2-week borrowing period, and can be renewed twice.

Book and CD items have a checkout limit of 10, a 2-week borrowing period, and can be renewed twice.

Book on CD items have a checkout limit of 10, a 2-week borrowing period, and can be renewed twice.

Cake Pan items have a checkout limit of 3, a 2-week borrowing period, and can be renewed twice.

CD have a checkout limit of 10 (music), a 2-week borrowing period, and can be renewed twice.

DVD items have a checkout limit of 5*, a 1-week borrowing period, and can be renewed twice.
* Juvenile Only cardholders may check out a total of 5 Blu-ray and DVD items combined—not 5 of each format.

Doll (American Girl BeForever) items have a checkout limit of 1, a 2-week borrowing period, cannot be renewed, and have a daily fine of $0.25 and a maximum fine of $5.

Game items cannot be checked out.

Hotspot (T-Mobile Test Drive) items cannot be checked out.

Interlibrary Loan items cannot be checked out.

Kit items have a checkout limit of 10, a 2-week borrowing period, and can be renewed twice.

Laptop or Charger kiosk items cannot be checked out.

Laptop items cannot be checked out.

Launchpad items have a checkout limit of 3, a 2-week borrowing period, and can be renewed twice.

Magazine items have a checkout limit of 20, a 2-week borrowing period, and can be renewed twice.

Paperback items have a checkout limit of 25, a 2-week borrowing period, and can be renewed twice.

Playaway items have a checkout limit of 10, a 2-week borrowing period, and can be renewed twice.

Puzzle items have a checkout limit of 1, a 1-week borrowing period, and cannot be renewed.

Sensory Backpack items have a checkout limit of 1, a 2-week borrowing period, and can be renewed twice.

Talking Book items have a checkout limit of 25, a 2-week borrowing period, and can be renewed twice.

View items have a checkout limit of 3, a 2-week borrowing period, and can be renewed twice.

eContent Information

Digital borrowing limits depend on the product and publisher, and may change at any time.

Freading

Content: eBooks
Checkout Limit: 2 checkouts per week; unused checkouts roll over; limits reset at the beginning of each month.
Loan Period: 2 weeks
Renewals: Renew for an additional 2-week period.
Additional Requirements: valid library card

freegalmusic+

Content: download or stream music
Checkout Limit: Downloads (5 weekly); Streaming (3 hours daily)
Loan Period: Available downloads reset every Mon. (12 AM CST); streaming times reset daily (12 AM CST); keep downloads
Renewals: none
Additional Requirements: valid library card

hoopla

Content: eBooks, audiobooks, movies, TV shows, music, and comics
Checkout Limit: 30 titles per month
Loan Period: eBooks, music, audiobooks & comics (21 days); movies & tv shows (48 or 72 hrs); BingePasses (7 days)
Renewals: No renewals; borrow the title again once expired.
Additional Requirements: valid library card and valid email address

Kanopy

Content: Critically acclaimed movies, inspiring documentaries, award-winning foreign films, etc.
Checkout Limit: Users receive 40 tickets per month; each movie has a specific ticket value; no checkout limits for Kids’ Corner.
Renewals: Renew option appears 3 days prior to due date if no holds on title.
Additional Requirements: valid library card, PIN, and email address

OverDrive/Libby

Content: audiobooks, eBooks, and magazines
Checkout Limit: 10 per library card
Loan Period: Audiobooks/eBooks (7 or 14 days); Magazines (14 days; excluded from checkout limits)
Renewals: Renew option appears 3 days prior to due date if no holds on title.
Additional Requirements: library card or mobile number