How do I....
...use my account?
...get physical and digital titles?
...use the library's technology services?
...interact with you?
...get involved?
Contact us if your question isn't answered here and to give us feedback!
Your Account
How do I get a library account and card?
Apply online for a free library card then pick it up at any one of our libraries! We will need you to provide identification and proof of your current address. If you are under 16, you will need a guardian's signature.
How do I log in to my account?
Click on the My Account link at the top of our website to log in with your name, library card number (see back of card), and PIN.
What is my PIN? Can I change it?
Your PIN (Personal Identification Number) is something you choose when you get a library card. If you know your PIN, you can change it at any time by logging into your account and clicking on "Change Your PIN." If you've forgotten it, on your next visit to the library, ask staff to assist you in getting a new PIN (don't forget to bring your library card or other photo ID)!
Get Physical and Digital Titles
How do I find a book, movie, or album?
Use the catalog search box at the top of our website. You can search by title, author, or any keyword describing what you're looking for.
How do I renew materials?
Log in to your account and click the "Checked out items" button. Select itens to renew and click the "Renew Selected" button. Review your list of checked out items carefully as not everything is renewable all the time. The items are not actually renewed unless the word "RENEWED" appears in the Status column next to the item with a new due date.
How do I place a request for an item?
Log in to your account, and search for the item you wish to request. Click on the Request button at the top of the page. For more, see Checkouts, Renewals, and Requests.
How do I find articles?
The library has online subscriptions to thousands of magazines, journals, and newspapers. You can click on the Articles link at the top of our website get quick access to all our research resources, or look at our list of research resources by topic.
How do I download digital content?
You can download thousands of eBooks and eAudioBooks from the library's website, 24/7, and at no cost to you. Please see the Downloads page for more information.
How do I get help with downloading eBooks and eAudioBooks?
Check out our New User's Guide and our Downloads FAQ, and you can of course also contact us for additional assistance.
How do I use My Reading History?
My Reading History is a feature you can use to keep a list of titles you have checked out from the library. To turn it on, log in to your account and click on "My Reading History." Then click on "Keep History." For more on what information is kept and privacy, see the My Reading History FAQ.
How do I get a copy of a book you don't have?
If we don't have the title you want in our catalog, you have a few choices:
Use the Library's Technology Services
How do I use the free wifi?
Both the Downtown and Pickleweed Library locations offer free wireless, no log-in required.
How do I make a computer reservation?
Our public-use computers are available for reservations up to 2 hours per day with your library card. Make a reservation now.
How do I get information about your computers?
Read through our Library Computers FAQs for more information.
Interact with Us
How do I get research help from a librarian?
Use the Contact Us link at the top of our website. You can visit, call, or email us!
How do I get help with my account?
For questions about your library account, contact Circulation at the Downtown Library (415-459-5581) or Pickleweed (415-485-3483).
How do I give you feedback?
We want to hear from you! Contact us via chat, email, phone, or in-person.
Get Involved
How do I join the Friends of the Library?
Become a Friend of the Library! The Friends of San Rafael Public Library are volunteers that support, advocate and raise funds for a library.
How do I volunteer?
We love our volunteers! Review our open volunteer opportunities, call us, and we'll be in touch!
How do I make a donation?
The library happily accepts (and greatly appreciates!) donations online. If you want to bring a suitcase full of cash or gold bars to our staff, we'll take that too :)