Frequently Asked Questions

How to Use this FAQ:

Find the answers to frequently asked questions here. Click on the links below to view each category, and then click on individual questions to read answers.

 

General Library Information

When is the Library open?

Glendale Central Library, Brand Library & Art Center, Casa Verdugo Library, Chevy Chase Library, Grandview Library, Library Connection @ Adams Square, Montrose Library, and Pacific Park Library hours can be found here In-Person Services. Online resources and Live Chat services are also available 24/7 through this website, eGlendaleLAC.org.

Can I contact the library?

Yes, there are three ways to contact the library:

  1. To speak to library staff, call 818-548-2021, during the hours of 9:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m., Monday – Thursday, 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Friday - Saturday, 1:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Sunday.

  2. To send staff an email, email libraryinfo@glendaleca.gov.

  1. Connect through Live Chat, Monday – Friday: 5:00 am – 8:00 pm, Saturday: 6:00 am – 8:00 pm, Sunday: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm. To access, click on the Need Help? Chat Live Now icon at the bottom of this page.

Where can I return my library books?

You may return your items to your nearest library bookdrop or to one of our open locations.

Can I donate books to the library?

We are no longer accepting book donations at any of our branches due to storage capacity. Please consider donating your books to the Little Free Libraries located throughout the city.

How long can I check out library materials for?

The loan period for books, CDs, DVDs, games, and other non-electronic materials is 3 weeks. Items will auto renew for up to a maximum of 5 times if there are no pending holds.

Will I be charged late fees for current items checked out on my library account?

There are no fines or fees currently associated with materials on your account at this time.

What is going to happen to physical items I’ve requested (holds)?

You may pickup your holds from one of our open locations when they are ready for you. You may pick them up from our hold shelves and check them out at the service desk or you may also request to pick them up using our contactless pickup service.

Holds ready for pick up will be kept on the holdshelf for 7 days.

For additional information and updates regarding our in-person services, please visit the In-Person Services page or call 818-548-2021.

For additional information and updates regarding our contactless pickup services, please visit the Contactless Pickup Services page or call 818-548-2021.

Many digital services are still available and can be accessed on our Digital Library page.

What do I do if I have returned an item and my library account shows it is still checked out to me on my account?

There are no fines or fees currently associated with materials on your account at this time. If returned materials still appear on your library account, please contact the library at 818-548-2021.

Glendale History Room

What is the Glendale History Room and how do I access it?

Want to know more about Glendale’s history? Need help with a local history research question? The Glendale History Room is here to help. Our collections include Glendale city directories from 1906-1977; historical photographs, maps and periodicals; local newspapers; and published books.

Finding aids for archival collections are on the Online Archive of California.

A selection of historical images are in Calisphere.

The Glendale History Room is currently open by appointment only. Please contact us at glendalehistoryroom@glendaleca.gov or 818-548-2037 for more information.

FAQ Topics:

Library Card Information

What can I use my library card for?

Your Glendale Library, Arts & Culture library card offers you a vast selection of e-resources, databases, and services that you can enjoy from the comfort of your own home! Our website eglendalelac.org places the library at your fingertips. Make sure to click “Select Language” to translate the website into the language that is right for you.

I want to access the digital resources but I do not have a library card. How do I get a library card?

There are two ways to get a digital library card:

  1. Visit register.eglendalelac.org and fill out the form.

  2. You can use our GLAC mobile app to create a library eCard

    Download the Android App

    Download the iOS App.

How do I add/change my Email address?

Add/change your existing email here.

  1. Enter your library card/eCard number and current PIN, click “Submit.”

  2. Click “My Account.”

  3. Click “Edit account.”

  4. Enter your email address. To change existing email, replace it with a new email address.

  5. Click “Submit” at the bottom of the page.

How do I set up my PIN/password if I don’t have one?

To select a PIN/Password for your new library card follow these steps:

  1. Login to your account here.

  2. Enter your library card/eCard number, and leave the alphanumeric PIN or Password field blank.

  3. Click “Submit” then you will be prompted to set up a PIN.

  4. Enter an alphanumeric PIN twice, click “Submit.”

How do I reset/change my existing PIN number?

Reset/change your existing PIN by logging into your library account and going to "change your account password"here.

  1. Enter your current PIN.

  2. Enter your new PIN (it must be at least 6 digits) twice.

  3. Click on "Save Password.”

What if I can’t remember my PIN?

You may reset your PIN here if you can’t remember it. Enter your library barcode number and click submit. A valid email address must be on file to reset your PIN. You can also call the library at 818-548-2021, during the hours of 9:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m., Monday – Saturday.

FAQ Topics:

LINK+ & Interlibrary Loan (ILL)

LINK+

What is LINK+?

LINK+ allows you to request items from 70 public and academic libraries across California and Nevada. It works similar to Interlibrary Loan and is free with your Glendale library card.

How is LINK+ different from Interlibrary Loan?

LINK+ is integrated with the library’s catalog and you can place and manage holds yourself online.

Interlibrary Loan is only accessible via requests to staff, and items are accessible on a case by case basis. If an item is not available through LINK+ and you would like to request it via Interlibrary Loan, submit this form.

What type of materials can be placed on hold using LINK+?

Holds can be placed on books, audiobooks, DVDs, and CDs.

How do I request an item using the LINK+ catalog?

Search the library catalog to find the item you are looking for, and if you cannot find the item:

  1. Click on "Search other resources" on the top right of the catalog page. Select "Try your search in LINK+."

  2. Once you have found the item you are looking for select "Request it."

  3. Then select "Glendale Library, Arts & Culture" from the drop down menu and click "Submit."

  4. You will be taken to a separate window that will direct you to put in your library card number. For further assistance on requesting LINK+ items please view our LINK+ Tutorial.

Can I view which libraries own my searched item in LINK+?

Yes. Search for the title, and click on the title of the item for more information.

Where can I view or cancel my LINK+ holds?

Materials can be viewed in your Glendale Library, Arts & Culture account. LINK+ holds will appear alongside the other holds in your account. More information is available in the LINK+ Tutorial.

Can I renew my LINK+ items?

One three-week renewal is allowed for books and some media, unless the item has been requested by a patron at the owning library. No renewal is allowed for media selected for 7-day loan. When renewing LINK+ items, there is a delay while the home institution is checked for availability. There may be a 15-minute wait after the renewal attempt before renewal status is confirmed.

How long will my LINK+ items be on hold for me?

Once you receive a notice that your item is ready, pick it up off the holdshelf from the library branch you selected during your request. For hours and branch information visit our In-Person Services page. Books and media will be held for pick-up for 10 days. Selected media will be held for pick-up for 5 days. If not picked up, items will be returned to their owning library.

How long does it take to receive my LINK+ item hold?

Wait times can be unpredictable, depending on the location of the library sending the requested item.

Is there a replacement fee for lost items?

Yes, the replacement fee for lost items is $115.

Interlibrary Loan (ILL)

What is Interlibrary Loan (ILL)?

Interlibrary Loan allows Glendale Library, Arts & Culture library card holders to request items from other library systems if those materials are not available at any of our locations or through LINK+ services. Patrons may place up to 3 interlibrary loan requests in any 7-day period.

How long does it take to receive items using ILL?

If item is available through ILL services, please allow several weeks or longer for an item to arrive. You will receive a notification when your ILL request has been filled. We will make several attempts to locate your requested material. If unsuccessful, you will be notified by phone or email.

Is there a fee?

If the lending library charges a fee, it will be passed along to the patron. You will be notified after you place the request if there is a fee involved.

How do I place a request for ILL?

If materials cannot be borrowed through LINK+, only then you can request an Interlibrary Loan (ILL). For more information and to place a request please click here.

FAQ Topics:

Digital Collection

How can I access eBooks or eAudiobooks?

Thousands of eBook and eAudiobook materials are available for checkout instantly with your library card. For an updated list of services you can login to, visit eBooks and eAudiobooks and read or listen to a book on your tablet, smartphone, eReader, or computer.

CloudLibrary: Thousands of eBooks and Audiobooks for adults, children, and teens. Access online or download the Bibliotheca Cloud Library App. View tutorial

Freading: Over 1,100 publishers and a vast array of eBook titles are instantly available from around the globe. Access online or download the Freading App. No Audiobooks. View tutorial

Hoopla: Borrow eBooks and comics instantly. Access online or download the Hoopla Digital App. View tutorial

Vlume: eBooks and eAudiobooks in Armenian. էլեկտրոնային գրքեր ե ձայնագրքեր հայերենով. View tutorial

TeenBookCloud: eBooks and graphic novels geared for Teens. TeenBookCloud also features a collection of 100+ classics, Shakespeare, fiction, and non-fiction audiobooks. Online access only. View tutorial

TumbleBookLibrary: Children's eBooks, Read Along eAudiobooks, and Common Core reading. Online access only. View tutorial

TumbleMath: Collection of math eBooks and Read Along eAudiobooks for primary school readers, complete with animation and narration as well as lesson plans and quizzes. Online access only. View tutorial

AudioBookCloud: A great collection of eAudiobooks in a variety of genres of new titles, classics, non-fiction, children's books, teen books, Spanish language. Online access only. View tutorial

How can I access eMagazines and eNewspapers?

The library offers the following eMagazines and eNewspapers:

PressReader: Thousands of eMagazines and Newspapers in over 100 languages are available at your fingertips with your library card. Access online or download the PressReader App. View tutorial

How can I stream or download music?

The library offers a world of music available online for free with your library card from a variety of sources.

Alexander Street Music Online: Offers hundreds of thousands of streaming audio recordings. Every object in the collection is indexed for subjects, historical events, genres, people, cultural groups, places, time periods, and ensembles. Online access only. View tutorial

Freegal Music: Offers a collection of over 15 million songs, music videos and audiobooks from more than 40,000 music labels worldwide including Sony Music, Epic, RCA, and Columbia. Streaming is available 24/7 online or through the Freegal Music App. You can also download up to three songs per week to keep on your device. View tutorial

Hoopla: Offers over 250,000 albums. Access online or download the Hoopla Digital App. View tutorial

Naxos Jazz Library: Naxos Music Library Jazz [NMLJ] offers a streaming of jazz legends and contemporary jazz. The recordings in Naxos Music Library Jazz come from over 200 labels and include the catalogue of Blue Note Records, Warner Jazz, EMI, Fantasy and others. Access online or download the NML Jazz App. View tutorial

Naxos Music Library: Stream Classical, Jazz, World, Classic Rock, Nostalgia music from over 640 labels such as ARC, Berlin Classics, BIS, Capriccio, Chandos, EMI Classics, Erato, Finlandia, Hänssler Classic, Harmonia Mundi, Hungaroton, Naïve, Naxos, Nonesuch, Nimbus, Ondine, RCA Records, Sony Classical, Teldec, Virgin Classics and Warner Classics. Access online or download the NML App. View tutorial

How can I watch movies, documentaries, or TV shows?

The library offers access to movies through the following services:

Hoopla: Offers thousands of movies and television shows available instantly with your library card. Access online or download the Hoopla Digital App. Hoopla is even available on your TV! View tutorial

Why am I not able to access my OverDrive/Libby account?

We have consolidated platforms and have expanded the number of eBooks available. Check out our constantly growing digital collections

FAQ Topics:

eLearning

How can I access online learning activities for children ages 2 – 8?

The library offers a variety of online learning activities for children:

ABCmouse: Educational games, books, puzzles & songs for kids ages 2-8 available for home checkout. Access online or download the ABCmouse App. View tutorial

Creativebug: Learn a new skill and get crafting with step-by-step video tutorials. Online access only. View tutorial

Homework Help Now: Tutoring, practice tests, flashcards, and live online homework help. Access online or download the Brainfuse HelpNow App. View tutorial

TumbleMath: Collection of math eBooks for primary school readers, complete with animation and narration as well as lesson plans and quizzes. Online access only. View tutorial

Where can I receive help on my homework?

Homework Help Now is available to help learners of all ages with live tutoring (available 1:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.) and study resources. This service is available in English and Spanish only. Access online or download the Brainfuse HelpNow App. View tutorial

How can I access databases that will help me with writing a report for school?

The library offers many databases that will help you with your research. We have highlighted the following databases below that will help you find articles and more for general research. Click on the following links below to explore more:

Academic Search Premier: A leading scholarly database that provides access to peer- reviewed full text journals, magazines, and other valuable resources. Geared for high school and college students. View tutorial

Explora Primary Schools: A dictionary, encyclopedia, and a collection of images are included in this database for children. View tutorial

Explora Public Libraries: A general reference resource primarily for K-12 students. Includes an encyclopedia, dictionary, and an image library to help you with your research. View tutorial

Gale Virtual Reference Library: An online library of reference titles; includes texts related to American and world history, biographies, health, arts, business, travel, religion, and multicultural studies. View tutorial

How can I improve my English skills or learn another language?

The library offers the Mango Languages service where you can improve on your English skills or learn another language through interactive lessons. Access online or download the Mango Languages App. View tutorial

FAQ Topics:

COVID-19, Mental Health, and Community Resources

How can I learn more about COVID-19?

The Library is maintaining a list of trusted sources of information about COVID-19 and the City of Glendale is maintaining a list of local resources. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is also an excellent resource for information. Their webpage is translated into Spanish, Mandarin, Vietnamese, and Korean.

How can I learn about different mental health resources?

To learn about different mental health resources click here. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, please call the Los Angeles County Crisis Hotline at 800-854-7771.

How can I learn about different community resources that are available for me and my family during this tough time?

Library staff has compiled a resource guide of support services for employment and healthy living to help you stay informed at home. To learn about the various services and community resources that are available in Glendale, click here.

FAQ Topics:

Explore from Home

How can I explore art and culture from home?

Visit Brand from Home to view a selection of curated content that supports learning, provides entertainment and will enrich your day with art, music and culture.

The Library has also curated a list of virtual exhibits and cultural experiences from the comfort of your living room.

Are there any activities that the library can provide so that I may be creative at home?

The library offers Creativebug featuring thousands of award-winning art & craft video classes taught by recognized design experts and artists. There are also a variety of online resources from our MakerSpace to help you be creative at home.

What activities or programs do you offer for children from home?

The library has many resources for families to explore at home, including online storytimes and other programs with our staff, eBooks and online learning activities. Click here for access.

Do you offer volunteer/program opportunities for teens at home?

Click here to access the Teen page for information about volunteer opportunities and other recreational resources.