Frequently Asked Questions

Applicant must live in California. You can visit your local OCPL branch or apply online (https://web.ocpl.org/n/LibraryCardApplication/). At the branch present a valid ID.

If you are under eighteen, you must have your parent/legal guardian sign your library application and include their ID number.

Alternatively, you can also apply for an eCard Restricted to only for those living in Orange County. An eCard provides access to online databases and downloadable eMedia. It cannot be used inside the library to borrow material, place holds on material from the library, borrow from the laptop kiosk, nor is it valid for use of the public library Internet computers.

Patrons with an existing OC Public Libraries card already have this access and do not need an eCard. To learn more about how to get a library card, please visit: https://ocpl.org/cards

To replace your library card please Contact Us

Minors, age 17 or younger must have parent/legal guardian sign the application and include their ID.

Can I return material that belongs to another Orange County Library not on your list?

OCPL accepts and returns materials to the following ten public libraries in Orange County: Anaheim, Buena Park, Fullerton, Huntington Beach, Mission Viejo, Newport Beach, Orange (City) Public, Placentia, Santa Ana, and Yorba Linda. However, it will take much longer for them to be returned to their library system and you are responsible for any fines you may incur at the corresponding library system during this time.

How do I manage my account online?

Click this link to view your checkouts, holds, including digital checkouts and holds from OverDrive. You can also pay bills, renew, place holds, suspend holds and change your hold pickup location.

Where do I return library materials?

Please return library materials in the book drop at a branch library of your choice. For a list of branches, please see our website at https://www.ocpl.org/libraries

I'm an author. How do I add my book to the system?

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To market your book to OC Public Libraries, please see the information on our website at: https://www.ocpl.org/services/about-ocpl/how-market-your-book-oc-public-libraries

What is your renewal policy?

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For your convenience, items will automatically renew after 10am on their due date if they are eligible for renewal.

Items with holds, items renewed five times, Reference books, Chromebooks, Hotspots, Interlibrary Loan items, Homebound patrons and Lucky Day books are not eligible for renewal. Library of Things are not renewable, except for Board Games and Jig Saw Puzzles.