Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need my library card to check out materials?

Yes. Patrons must present their library card to use all services.

Can I use my library card at all West Florida Public Libraries locations?

Yes, West Florida Public Library cards may be used at any West Florida Public Libraries location.

What if I lost my card or it was stolen?

Free replacement cards once a year. After first replacement card, cards are issued at a cost of $1 with proper ID. Patrons are responsible for any items checked out on their card prior to the card being reported as lost or stolen.

Can I use my mother’s/father’s/aunt’s/etc. library card?

How do I get a card for my child?

Children (0-12) and youth (13-17) may apply for a library card when their parent or legal guardian (with proper ID) accompanies them to the library.

May I get a card if I do not live in Escambia County?

Non-resident cards are available for those who live outside Escambia County and do not qualify for a free card. Non-resident cards are available for an annual fee of $50.

How much do library cards cost?

Resident and short-term library cards are free. Non-resident cards are available for an annual fee of $50.

What if I forget my library card?

As a courtesy to our patrons, the library can issue a one-day patron cards for those who have forgotten their card when visiting the library. This card allows patrons to check out materials and use the public computers.

What if I am just visiting and want to use the public computer?

Computer guest passes are issued to visitors who are interested in public computer use only. The cost for this pass is $1 and is good for one day.

How many items may I check out?

How many times can I renew an item?

All library materials may be renewed a maximum of two times, as long as no other requests have been placed on the item.

Can I call and renew my items?

Items may be renewed by phone, over the web or in person as long as the item is eligible to be renewed.

How do I access my account online?

Once you are in the WFPL online catalogue, look for the “Log In” button on the top right side of the page. Click the “Log In” button, enter your 13-digit library card number and your pin (usually the last four digits of the phone number on your library card registration).

Is there a cost to check out items?

All items are free to check out, but late fees will be incurred for overdue items.

How much are fines and fees?

Overdue books, magazines, books on CD, music CDs, 7-Day books and DVDs are charged 20 cents per day, up to a maximum of $7 per item.

How do I request an item?

A cardholder may request any circulating library item by visiting any library location or by visiting the library’s website. However, the library does not guarantee the availability of requested items.

Will I be notified when my items are ready to be picked up?

Yes. Patrons will be notified when their requested items are ready for pickup.     

How long will my items be held?

Requested items will be held for five days.

How many holds can I request?

The maximum number of holds requested on a library card is 15.

What happens if I lose an item?

Cardholders are responsible for paying the replacement cost of items not returned, including a $5 nonrefundable processing fee.

I found my lost item, can I get a refund?

A cardholder who pays for and then returns a lost item may request a refund within 30 days of the payment date. Patrons must present their payment receipt in order to receive a refund. The $5 processing fee is not refundable.

What happens if I damage an item?