Zip Books–Your Library Delivered
Did you know there is a free way to get books and audiobooks delivered to you that are not available in the catalogs at your local libraries in Marin or through LINK+?
The California State Library helps public libraries across the state to bring more books directly into the hands of readers through the Zip Books program, including right here at the San Rafel Public Library! Zip Books makes getting the titles you want fast, easy, and convenient. Simply request a title, and we’ll order it for you. Your item is shipped straight to your home, so you can start reading right away. When you’re finished, just return it to the library, where it becomes part of our collection for the entire community to enjoy. You can find returned Zip Books in our collections at each of our three library locations! Ready to get started? Visit our website to learn more and explore program details and guidelines today!
Language barriers, limited transportation, and the demands of daily life can make it harder for library users to access resources. To address these challenges and expand access to information, the California State Library partners with public libraries statewide to offer the Zip Books program.
In 2025, Califa expanded the Zip Books program to include eBooks and eAudiobooks, giving patrons even more access to the digital titles they want. In addition to physical Zip Books, eligible digital requests are purchased and made available through the Palace Project app. Titles must be published, available in the Palace Marketplace, and not already owned by the library or offered through the statewide Palace collection. Visit our Zip Books page to learn more about this expanded digital option.
Zip Books is a proven, high-impact program that strengthens libraries with the greatest funding needs. On average, participating libraries operate with 24% less funding per person and 28% smaller materials budgets. Launched in 2011 as a three-library pilot, the program was an immediate success, cutting staff processing time by two-thirds and reducing delivery to just a few days instead of the weeks typical with traditional interlibrary loan. Supported by California Library Services Act funds and backed by a $1 million ongoing annual state appropriation since 2021–2022, Zip Books continues to expand access to materials for communities across California.
Get your library delivered to you!