• General Questions

    Yes.

    You need a reservation to use equipment on your own. 3D printers require a reservation, and reservations are recommended for all other equipment to make sure it’s available when you arrive.

    Please submit your request at least 4 days in advance so staff can review and confirm your appointment.

    If you're attending a class or event, you don't need a separate reservation.

    Related Pages: The Spark, 3D Printer, Sewing Machine, Die Cutting, Large Format Printing, Fremont Library

    The AC Library app is a free mobile app that lets you search the catalog, manage your account, place holds, and find library locations. It’s available for Android and iOS devices.

    Related: How to Get the App

    OverDrive is a vendor that sells eBooks, eAudiobooks, Libby Extras, and eMagazines.  Libby is OverDrive's app.  When you use Libby, you are using materials from OverDrive.

    Last May (2023), the original OverDrive app was retired in favor of Libby.  If you had the OverDrive app on your device, you can replace it with Libby.

    We have a guide to OverDrive and Libby that includes information about switching from the OverDrive app to Libby. Check it out for lots of great information about OverDrive and Libby!

    Gale Presents: Udemy is somewhat different from most of our eResources in that there are a number of limitations on its use. Please take a look at our Quick Start Guide for help. Scroll down to the section titled Troubleshooting if you are getting a message indicating "Suspicious Activity."

    You may print from any of our Library computers, or from anywhere on your own device.

    Use a Library Computer
    You can print using the default settings on the computer and pickup your job at a Kiosk in the Library.

    At the Kiosk, enter your Library Card & PIN to retrieve the print job. You will be prompted to choose options as well as to pay by cash or credit card.

    Print from anywhere on your own device (SmartAlec)
    You can send print jobs for pickup at any AC Library using our SmartAlec service. Visit the link and enter your Library Card & PIN information. Non-members can also go through similar steps, but will be required to create a guest account to use this service. SmartAlec is also available as a free download on Android and iOS

    After logging-in, you will be able to upload a document to print. You may visit any of our locations to complete the printing process at a Kiosk in the Library. 

    Only pdf, doc, docx, xls, xlsx, ppt, pptx, csv, txt, html, rtf, jpg, png, bmp, jpeg, and heic files are compatible.

    Adults who have some availability during regular school hours (8:30 a.m. through 2:30 p.m., Monday through Friday) can become Bookleggers. The main qualifications are a love of reading and a desire to share that love with children. There are no educational prerequisites or financial requirements. Books used for volunteering are available for checkout from the Alameda County Library.

    During the COVID-19 pandemic, we are not accepting new Bookleggers or visiting classrooms. 

    There are two ways you can look at an electronic version of Consumer Reports:

      1. Read the eMagazine on Flipster. The titles of eMagazines on Flipster can be searched or browsed alphabetically.
        You can read in the browser or get the Flipster app for your iOS or Android device.  You will need your library card number to sign in.
      2. Read articles on EBSCOhost.  Full-text issues go back to 1991 but are organized by article. 

    If there is a specific article you would like to read or you would like to search across all issues, use the EBSCOhost link.  If you would like to read the most recent issue (or a recent back issue), use the Flipster link.

    If you need help or have questions, please contact us anytime. 

    Alameda County Library is always working to make our facilities and services more welcoming and accessible.

    Available accommodations include (but are not limited to):

    Requests for specific accommodations can be made by contacting your local Alameda County Library location or Accessibility Services. More information can be found on our Accessibility page.

    You can place a hold from either search results or an item's details page.

    From Search Results:

    1. Search for the item using keywords.
    2. When you find the title, select Place a Hold next to your desired format.
    3. In the pop up, log in to your library account.
    4. Select your pickup location (your default location will be suggested).
    5. Select Place Hold.
    6. You should see a confirmation message: "Hold requested on [title]."
    7. If you change your mind, you can select Cancel Hold.

    From a Title’s Details Page:

    1. On that title's detail page, be sure you have the desired format selected. Format options are listed below the tite, author, and ratings but above the description.
    2. Select Place a Hold.
    3. In the pop up:
      • Log in to your library account.
      • Select your pickup location (your default location will be suggested).
      • Select Place Hold.
    4. You should see a confirmation message: "Hold requested on [title]."
    5. If you change your mind, you can select Cancel Hold.

    Notes:

    • To see which libraries have the item available, use the Availability by Location link.
    • You can enable single-click holds to skip the location step (more details).
    • For eBooks or other digital items:
      • If available, the button says Download Now.
      • If not available, the button says Request this Download.
    • Some items (e.g., reference books or microfiche) cannot be placed on hold. Ask staff for help.

    Related: Canceling Holds, Pausing Holds, Checking Holds

    You can have up to 15 active holds of physical items on your account at a time. Holds limits on eLibrary items varies, depending on the platform.

    Getting a Library Card is easy:

    1. Apply for an account online or at any our libraries. If you are under the age of 13 years old, your parent or guardian will have to help you complete the form.

    2. Verify your account by bringing your identification (with name and proof of current California address) to any of our libraries' Circulation Desks. See below to learn how to request a Library Card by mail.

    3. Start enjoying all that AC Library has to offer! 

    Please note: Non-Alameda County residents’ eCard accounts will be deleted after 30 days.

    What identification do I need?

    Accepted forms of identification include (but are not limited to):

    • California driver's license
    • California ID
    • School-issued ID
    • Physical or digital utility bill
    • Recent postmarked mail
    Library Cards by Mail

    For a limited time, anyone who lives in the state of California can get an AC Library Card by mail. Here's how:

    1. Apply for an account online. If you are under the age of 13 years old, your parent or guardian will have to help you complete the form.

    2. Tell us where to send your Library Card. We'll mail your Library Card within one week.

    3. Verify your new account online or by phone.

    4. Start enjoying all that AC Library has to offer! 

    Paper Library Card Applications

    If you would rather fill out a paper application form, please print and complete one of the below forms, then bring it to any of our locations:

    You can use 3D printers, sewing machines, a die cutter, and a large-format printer.

    To get started, you’ll need:

    • A library card
    • A signed waiver
    • A reservation to use equipment, or you can attend an event.

    We welcome beginners and experienced makers alike.

    Related Pages: The Spark, 3D Printer, Sewing Machine, Die Cutting, Large Format Printing, Fremont Library

    Anyone with a library card, a signed waiver, and a reservation can use the equipment. The Spark is open to all experience levels—beginners are welcome.

    Youth under 18 need a parent or guardian to sign the waiver. Some equipment has age limits for supervision—check the equipment pages for details.

    Related Pages: The Spark, 3D Printer, Sewing Machine, Die Cutting, Large Format Printing, Fremont Library

    You can pick up your library holds at two new pickup locations! They are self-service lockers where you can get books, DVDs, and more. Learn more about Library Lockers, including how to use them.

    • Printing or copying black and white pages costs $0.15 per page
    • Printing or copying color pages costs $0.35 per page
    • Scanning is free - Please contact your local Library for the latest on scanning availability. 
    • For fax costs, please contact your local library

    At present, AC Library cardholders can print up to ten (10) black and white pages per day free of charge from a Library computer or your personal device. We are unable to provide this benefit for photocopies or to members without a Library Card. The number of free prints available may change at any time due to costs.

    Costs may be paid at the print Kiosk by cash or credit card (Visa, Mastercard, or Amex).

    Your privacy is something we take very seriously. There are two parts of keeping your print information confidential, the physical access and the digital storage.

    For physical access to your print job, only someone who enters your Library Card number and PIN can view information about your printing at the print Kiosk. A digital copy is kept on the print Kiosk in case the printer jams, only until the end of the day or until manually deleted by staff at your request.

    For Online Printing, SmartAlec jobs are transmitted over TLS 1.2 network protocols. These jobs are encrypted and stored in a database for seven days to provide time for you to visit and pick them up. If you wish, you can log in and delete your own uploads from the database prior to the automatic deletion.

    In Fremont, Bookleggers visit elementary school classrooms, grades 2 to 5. In Castro Valley, Bookleggers visit elementary school classrooms, grades K to 5. The number of classrooms each semester depends on each school district’s needs.

    We operate very similarly to your Community Library, although we do not offer printing or computer services. All you need to check-out materials is an AC Library card. If your card is expired or you need a new or replacement card, we can help you on the Mobile Library, with or without an ID. If you do not have an ID, we can issue a welcome card with limited borrowing privileges.  

    Read The New York Times for free through Alameda County Library. You'll have full access to News, Games (Wordle, Crossword, and more), Cooking, and more.

    You must use our special access link. You currently can't use nytimes.com directly for free access, even inside the library.

    How to Claim Your Pass

    1. Access Link: Click this access link or select it on our NYTimes eResource pages (Inside the Library or At Home and On the Move).    

      • In the Library: If you use Library Wi-Fi or computers, no library card or PIN is needed.
      • Outside the Library: If you are at home or on the move, you need to enter your library card number and PIN when prompted.
    2. Log in or Create Account: Use your existing NYTimes account or create one for free using your email and a password.
    3. Claim Your 72-hour Pass: A confirmation screen will show when your pass expires. After 72 hours, you can use the same access link to renew.

    Claiming Your Pass: What to Expect

    • Confirmation Page: Shows your pass expiration date.
    • Renewal Reminder: You'll have an option to set a reminder to renew.
    • Get Started Button: Select the "Get Started" button to continue.
    • Newsletter and Game Alerts: Set your preferences for email newsletters and game alerts. Some will be pre-selected, so you have to uncheck them if you don't want them. You can unsubscribe later though.
    • Mobile App or Browser: Download the iOS or Android app, or read directly in your browser.

    Renewing Your Pass

    To renew your pass after 72 hours, simply return to the access link and repeat the steps above. You can renew as often as you like. If you are logged into your NYTimes account during those 72-hours, you can go to nytimes.com or use the app directly. You only need to use the access link to renew your pass.

    Every library provides Pocketalkers for in-library use. Pocketalkers are personal sound amplifiers that help users hear more of what they want to hear and less of what they don't. They achieve this by reducing background noise and allowing the user to focus on and amplify specific sounds.

    Pocketalkers are ideal for library programs, film showings, group discussions, one-on-one conversation, and for library use in general. Using a Pocketalker is as simple as plugging in a pair of headphones (or using the included pair), positioning the microphone near the preferred sound, and adjusting the volume to your desired setting. 

    Visit any of our libraries' Reference Desks to borrow a Pocketalker for use during your next library visit. 

    In addition, we have RF (radio frequency)-based assistive listening systems from Listen Technologies at the Albany, Castro Valley, Dublin, Fremont Main and Newark libraries. These systems are great for larger events and programs. Users can adjust the volume of the presentation audio on an individual basis using an RF receiver. Simply let staff know if you would like the presenters to provide event or program audio through one of these systems. 

    If you require accommodations for a specific library program, please contact the library where the program is being held or message Accessibility Services at least seven (7) days in advance. 

    • Go to our catalog's Log In page.
    • Enter your barcode (your physical library card number on the back of your card or your eCard number) and PIN.
      • If you haven’t registered before, you’ll be taken to the registration page.
      • Follow the brief prompts to finish registration.

    A few things to note about registering:

    • Your birth date should be pulled automatically from your library account.
      • If it is not, make sure it shows you as older than 13 years of age so that you have full functionality. Contact the library as soon as you can to update that information in your library record.
    • You will need to create a username when you log in for the first time.  The username must be unique to you and should not contain sensitive information like your name or barcode/library card number.
      • If you choose to make any part of your profile public, the username will be visible to other users.
      • Usernames can contain letters, numbers, and underscores. You can use your username to log in to your account.

    What if I don't want to set up a BiblioCommons account?

    If you decide that our main library catalog just isn't for you, you can still manage your account online in the Basic Catalog. Simply log in using your library account number (your barcode) and PIN. The link will always be available in our website's footer. 

    Alameda County Library Cards and eCards must be renewed every five years. You can renew your account in a few different ways:

    • Online via our Library Card Renewal form.  
    • On the phone by calling any AC Library location. We'll ask you to provide the following information to verify it's really you:
      • Library Card or eCard number
      • Full name
      • Mailing address
      • Phone number and/or email address
    • In-person at any AC Library location. You will be asked to provide your Library Card or identification with name and current address. 

    Yes—with supervision, depending on age and equipment.

    • Under 13: Supervision required for 3D printers and sewing machines
    • Under 10: Supervision required for the die cutter
    • Under 9: Supervision required for the large-format printer

    About Waivers:

    • For anyone under 18, a parent or guardian must sign the waiver on their behalf.
    • If that adult is supervising during equipment use, they also need their own signed waiver.
    • Waivers only need to be signed once.

    Check the equipment pages for full age and supervision details.

    Related Pages: The Spark, 3D Printer, Sewing Machine, Die Cutting, Large Format Printing, Fremont Library

    It depends on the event, the equipment used, and who's attending.

    Some events require a library card, a signed waiver, or active supervision by a parent or guardian—especially for some youth using equipment.

    Check the event listing details to see what's needed before you attend.

    Related Pages: Events at The Spark, The Spark, 3D Printer, Sewing Machine, Die Cutting, Large Format Printing, Fremont Library

    Tap the card icon in the top right of the app to see your library card barcode. Your card number and expiration date will appear there, too.

    You can scan your barcode at a self-service station or reference your card number when signing in to eResources.

    Yes! You can request an ADA-friendly Library Locker. When you place your hold, select one of these options:

    • Wally Pond Locker - ADA Accessible
    • Warm Springs Locker - ADA Accessible

    If you need help, let us know.

    Yes, you can print from your own computer at the library or from anywhere in the world with internet access.

    Cloud printing of documents is available for mobile devices and computers using a web upload or by installing the Smart Alec App (iOS / Android).

    We are now accepting returns at any time! You may return items to any of our Alameda County Library locations, no matter which location they were originally checked out from. Book drops may be closed if full.

    We are not accepting donations at this time, and return receipts are unavailable.

    It depends on where you are:

    • At the library: You can access the Washington Post right away—no login or library card needed.
    • At home or on the go: You'll need to check out a renewable 7-day pass using your library card, then sign in with a Washington Post account.

    Not sure how to start? Our quick tutorial will walk you through the steps.

    Service animals are welcome in all of our libraries. We love all animals, but pets, emotional support animals, and other animals that have not been trained to perform specific acts directly related to an individual’s disability are not allowed into our libraries.

    During training, class time is 2.5 to 3 hours weekly, and homework time is about the same. After training, the time commitment varies depending on the grade level and school district.

    Yes, you can return Mobile Library items to any AC Library location. If you need to return items that you checked out at one of our Community Libraries, we can accept them on the Mobile Library.

    There are currently two eResources that are not compatible with the eCard:

    In addition, there are some eResources that are only available inside our libraries.

    We are working to expand access to all of our resources. We will update this list as things change.

    All eligible AC Library items renew automatically three (3) days before their due date, and most can be renewed twice. However, if you decide that you would like to renew your items ahead of that date, you can do so online or by phone 24/7.

    To Renew Your Items Online

    Renewing a Single Item

    1. Log in to your account.

    2. On the menu, click Checked Out.

    3. Find the title you want to renew.

    4. Click the Renew button below the item.

    5. A popup message will let you know if your renewal was successful.

    Renewing Multiple Items

    1.Log in to your account.

    2. On the menu, click Checked Out.

    3. If necessary, filter your checkouts by clicking Overdue, Next due or Due later under the My Borrowing summary on the left of the page.

    4. Do one of the following:

    • Click the checkbox next to each item you want to renew
    • Click the checkbox above the items to select all of the items on the page.

    5. A bar appears at the bottom of the page. Click Renew selected. The number of items affected appears in brackets on the menu.

    6. A popup message will let you know if your renewals were successful.

    To Renew Your Items by Telephone

    Have your library card number and the barcode numbers for the items you wish to renew ready, then call 510-790-8096 and follow the automated instructions. Our telephone renewal service is available in English, Mandarin, and Spanish.

    Reasons Why Your Renewal Wasn't Successful

    Unable to renew? Your renewal request might not have been completed for the following reasons: 

    • Another member has put a hold on the item.
    • Your library balance is $10.00 or more.
    • An item on your record is ten or more days overdue.
    • The item has already been renewed twice.
    • Your library card account needs to be updated.

    On top of borrowing up to 100 items from any of our ten libraries or the Mobile Library, you can also do things like:

    • Tap the search icon.
    • Tap the barcode icon in the search bar.
    • If this is your first time scanning, you may need to allow the app to access your camera.
    • Scan the ISBN on any book to find out if it's available at AC Library.

    You can pick up your items at the Library Lockers during these hours:

    • Outside the Wally Pond Community Center: 24/7
    • Inside the Warm Springs Community Center:
      Monday – Friday
      8:30 am – 12:30 pm
      1:30 pm – 5:30 pm

    Yes, you need a physical library card to place holds and use the lockers.

    On a Desktop/Laptop:

    1. Access Rosetta Stone from Our Site: Use Alameda County Library's direct link on our Rosetta Stone page or the link in our our eLibrary.
    2. Log In: If you aren't using a library computer or library Wi-Fi, enter your library card number and PIN.
    3. Select the Service: After a successful login, choose Rosetta Stone Library Solution from the list of EBSCO products.
    4. Create or Sign In to Your Rosetta Stone Account: Use your email and password. First-time users will need to create an account.
    5. Choose a Language: Select your language.
    6. Launch the Program: Select Launch Rosetta Stone Foundations and follow the prompts to get started.

    On a Mobile Device (iOS, Android, Kindle Fire):

    • First-Time Setup (Recommended for New Users)  

      1. Install the App: Download the Rosetta Stone app—but don't open it yet.
      2. Log In via Browser: On your mobile browser, go to Rosetta Stone through our website and follow steps 1–6 above.
      3. Open the App When Prompted: When asked, "Open this page in 'Rosetta Stone'?", select Open. This links your session to the app.
      4. Start Learning: You're now logged in. The app will remember your credentials for next time.
    • Future Logins (Or If You Already Set Up Your Account)  

      1. Open the App and tap Log In.
      2. Select Account Type: Choose Work or School.
      3. Enter Credentials: Use the email and password you created earlier.
      4. Enter Workspace ID: Type in s8900657.

    Tips:

    • New Users: Follow the first-time setup for the easiest start.
    • Returning Users: Use the future logins steps if you're logged out. Both methods lead to the same learning experience.

    Bookleggers indicate their preferences for grade level and school sites. The volunteer coordinators make every effort to honor those preferences.

    If you are interested in donating material, please contact your local library first to inquire. 

    If we are not the right fit for your donation, StopWaste.org may help you locate another option in your community.

    In general, all items are due back on the date of our next scheduled stop.

    We have a number of ways you can read eMagazines and eNews. Each of these resources has different content, so you might want to take a look at all of them to find your favorites.

    News

    • PressReader: PressReader has hundreds of newspapers and eMagazines to choose from.  It's easy to use in your browser, or you can get the app from your app store.  Check out our Getting Started tutorial and begin exploring eMagazines and News from around the world and in dozens of languages.
    • The New York Times Online: Start with the the FAQ to get a New York Times Pass, which gives you complimentary access to NYTimes.com and NYT apps.
    • The Argus: Find full-text articles on local news, issues, events, people, and much more from current and archived issues of The Argus. Covers 2001-Present.
    • East Bay Times: Explore current and archived issues of The East Bay Times with full-color newspaper pages and individual articles, as well as content only published online. Coverage from 2016 through current.
    • Access World News: Find current and archived articles on issues, events, people, government and more with the world's largest collection of full-text news sources. Includes local news, editorials, announcements, and other sections from more than 10,000 sources.

    eMagazines

    • PressReader: PressReader (see above) has hundreds of magazines from around the world and in dozens of languages.  
    • OverDrive: OverDrive offers dozens of your favorite eMagazines including The Economist and Newsweek. All you need is your library card number and PIN.
    • Flipster: Flipster offers more of your favorite magazines including Consumer Reports and People.
    • hoopla Digital: hoopla Digital now has eMagazines you can read by checking out a Bingepass! 

    More

    For even more, check out our complete collection of eMagazines and eNews including articles from EBSCOhost and Gale Cengage.

    Need help?

    Contact us anytime!  You might also find our Quick Start Guides helpful.

    For your convenience, Alameda County Library allows Library Cardholders to add authorized users to their account by submitting a completed Additional Users Authorization form, either online or print. These forms are also available at each location's Circulation Desk.

    An Additional User can:

    • Check out the primary member’s holds
    • Borrow and request items on the primary member’s account
    • Pay fees
    • View borrowing records and account balance

    To access the account to which one is an approved user, the Additional User must do one of the following:

    • Present the primary member’s library card
    • Present an approved form of ID, know the name and address of the member, and be listed as an approved additional user on the account
      • Please note: Exceptions to the ID requirement may be permitted for Additional Users under 13 years old.

    Revoking Additional User access must be done in person or by submitting an Additional Users Removal form, either online or in print. Copies of this form are also available at each location's Circulation Desk.

    All Alameda County Library cardholders agree to the following terms prior to receiving an account:

    I agree to follow all library rules, to notify the library of any changes to the above information, to immediately report any lost or stolen cards or materials, and to pay any charges resulting from lost or damaged materials. 

    I understand that all library materials and services are available to all members, regardless of age or reading level, and that the Library’s use of my personal information is governed by CA Government Code Section 6267 and the Library’s Privacy Policy.  

    For applicants under the age of 13: I understand that my parent/guardian will be authorized to access to my library account records.

    For parents and guardians (if the applicant is under the age of 13): 

    I understand that I am responsible for my child’s use of all library materials and services, including internet access and any overdue fines or charges. 

    Please contact us if you have any questions about this agreement.

    To reset your PIN in our catalog:
    1. Go to the Login page.
    2. Select the Forgot your PIN link.
    3. On the Forgot your PIN page, enter your barcode (library card number).
    4. Select Send.
    5. In a few seconds, an email will be sent to the email address associated with your account.
    6. Open the email and select the link to launch your browser.
    7. On the Reset PIN page, enter your barcode (library card number). Enter a new PIN, and then confirm it by typing it again.
    8. Select Save.
    To reset your PIN in the Basic Catalog:
    1. Go to the My Account login page.
    2. Select the Forgot your PIN? link.
    3. Enter your Library Card or eCard number in the Barcode field.
    4. Select Submit.
    5. A PIN reset link will be sent to the email address on file. Select the PIN reset link in the email.
    6. Enter your name and Library Card Number in the appropriate fields.
    7. Enter a new PIN in the Enter Your PIN field.
    8. Re-enter that same PIN in the Enter Your PIN Again field.
    9. Select Submit.

    You have 7 days after you get a notification to pick up your items from the Library Lockers.

    You can suggest a purchase anonymously through this form or follow these instructions to suggest a purchase from your account.

    1. Click Log In from the top right of any page.
    2. Select My Library Dashboard from the drop-down menu and log in when prompted.
    3. Choose Submit a Suggestion from the dashboard menu on the left.
    4. Enter the title information and click on Submit Suggestion.

    To check on the status of previous requests:

    1. Click Log In from the top right of any page
    2. Select My Library Dashboard from the drop-down menu and log in when prompted.
    3. Choose Suggested this Month from the dashboard menu on the left.

    Rosetta Stone offers the courses in the following thirty languages:

    Arabic
    Chinese (Mandarin)
    Dari
    Dutch
    English (American)
    English (British)
    Filipino (Tagalog)
    French
    German
    Greek
    Hebrew
    Hindi
    Indonesian
    Irish
    Italian
    Japanese
    Korean
    Latin
    Pashto
    Persian (Farsi)
    Polish
    Portuguese (Brazil)
    Russian
    Spanish (Latin America)
    Spanish (Spain)
    Swahili
    Swedish
    Turkish
    Urdu
    Vietnamese

    Yes, the multifunction printers at the Library can scan to email or a USB drive. There is no charge for this service.

    As of May 2022, scanning equipment is down at many locations. Please contact your local Library for the latest on scanning availability. 

    If you require accommodations for a specific library program or event, please contact the library where the program is being held or message Accessibility Services at least seven (7) days in advance. This will help us ensure the needed accommodations are in place in time for the event.

    There is a select list of books that the Library stocks in abundance for the Bookleggers to use. Bookleggers have a wide variety to choose from within this list but are not permitted to use books outside of the list. The books for this list are chosen based on recommendations by library staff, volunteers, teachers, and families. The Booklegger list does not focus on books that children might already know, like award winners, best-sellers, or classroom classics. Instead, Booklegger books focus on great stories, unique characters, and diverse appeal.

    Getting started with PressReader is pretty easy - just follow the instructions in this short tutorial.

    If you need help or have questions, please feel free to contact us at any time.  We love answering your questions!

    You have the option to receive courtesy, overdue, and hold pickup notices by email or by phone. In addition, Alameda County Library also offers SMS text notices through Shoutbomb.

    • Courtesy notices are sent three days in advance of your item's due date. If your item was automatically renewed, the notice will display the new due date.
    • Overdue notices are sent 10 days after your item's due date.
    • Hold pickup notices are sent the day your requested item becomes available.
    • Hold cancellation notices are sent if your requested item is no longer available.
    • Outstanding library charges statements are sent after an item has become billed after 21 days overdue, or if a previously billed item has been returned (as an account adjustment).

    Link+ is a free interlibrary loan service that allows our members to request books, audiobooks, CDs, DVDs, Blu-rays, and VHS from over 60 other libraries throughout California.

    Library Cardholders can request any books or media unavailable from Alameda County Library and have them delivered to their local library. 

    Some details about using Link+:
    • Requested items usually arrive within 4 days and will be held for up to 10 days.
    • The loan period is 3 weeks with 1 renewal if there is no one waiting for the item.
    • Renewals can be requested within 3 days of the due date. 
    • Members may have 15 Link+ transactions at a time.
    • Please note: there is a charge of up to $115.00 for lost or damaged Link+ materials.
    How to request an item through Link+:

    If your AC Library catalog search shows that we don't own the item that you would like to borrow, click Try Your Search in Link+. This will automatically transfer your search terms to the Link+ catalog.

    When you find the item you would like to borrow, click the Request It button, then select "Alameda County Public" from the dropdown menu on the next screen. Finally, enter your name, Library Card number, choose your desired pickup location and click Submit.

    You'll be contacted by email, phone, or text as soon as your requested item is available.

    No. You can not return any items in the Library Lockers. Please return them to any Community Library location.

    In the future, book drops will be at each location for returning items, but they are not available for use, yet.

    Yes, specialized equipment is available to send a fax. Please contact your local library to confirm availability and cost for faxing.

    Kids love Bookleggers! Families frequently come to the library right after a Booklegger has visited to get the books that were shared. We hear from students who felt like readers for the first time after a Booklegger visited, or who tried a new genre and were surprised to find they loved it!

    Our library is now fine free, so if you return your library materials on our next visit you will not be charged any fines. If you'd prefer not to wait, check out our list of locations to find the closest library to return items. If you need further assistance with your account, please give us a call, 510-745-1477, and we'll be happy to help. 

    Yes, you can use the LearningExpress Library app!  

    The LearningExpress native mobile app is available on the iOS and Android platforms for both phones and tablets, and are downloadable from iTunes and the Google Play Store. Links to both can be found in the LearningExpress home page footer.

    You will need to create an account for LearningExpress Library on the site before you can log in to the app. 

    Please note that some of the resources available in the app are different from those available on the full site:
    The mobile app includes all the same flashcards, eBooks, and articles that are available on the online platform. It also includes all multiple-choice only practice tests and skills builders. All multiple-choice only practice tests and skill builders on the online platform share identical content and test formats with their mobile counterparts. For many important tests whose online counterparts include item types other than multiple-choice (like the GED® Test), there are mobile-only, multiple-choice versions available in the application. If a practice test is a pared-down mobile-only version, this is indicated in the mobile test’s instructions. The mobile versions of these practice tests are very helpful preparation, but for a complete practice experience, including different item types and diagnostic scoring, users should take the full versions available to them on the online platform.

    Tutorials, computer courses, and Job & Career Accelerator tools are not currently available in the mobile application.  The mobile app does not offer diagnostic scoring. Each completed test in the app reports an overall test score as a percentage, as well as the number of questions the user answered correctly, incorrectly, or skipped.

    Need help! Feel free to contact us anytime!  You might also find our Quick Start Guides helpful.

    Yes! All TTY users can dial 888-663-0660 to contact the Alameda County Library about their accounts, the library's services, or brief reference questions.

    Alternatively, you can simply dial 711 to be connected to the California Relay Service. To have your call immediately answered in your language and preferred mode of communication, please dial using one of the numbers below:

    • TTY/VCO/HCO to Voice

      • English: 800-735-2929
      • Spanish: 800-855-3000
    • Voice to TTY/VCO/HCO

      • English: 800-735-2922
      • Spanish: 800-855-3000
    • From or To Speech-to-Speech (English & Spanish): 800-854-7784

    Sometimes our reminder notices won't make it to your voicemail or inbox, for a variety of reasons. Here are a few steps you can take to help ensure you receive your library notices:

    1. Log in to your account online to verify that your provided contact information is correct.
    2. Add donotreply@aclibrary.org to your contacts or trusted senders lists so that our notices don't end up in your spam folder.
    3. If you currently receive email notices, consider signing up for text notices as well.
      1. Please note: we are unable to offer both phone and text notifications simultaneously. If you enroll in text notices, you will no longer receive phone notices. 

    Please remember: Alameda County Library provides phone, email and text reminder notices as a courtesy. As a library cardholder, it is your responsibility to return your materials on time or to contact us whenever that is not possible.

    We currently offer Shoutbomb text message notices in English, Spanish, and Simplified Chinese. 

    To sign up for Shoutbomb text message notices, text the message SIGNUP, REGISTRESE, or 注册 to (844) 225-7200 and reply with your card number. The language you use to sign up will determine what language Shoutbomb uses to communicate with you in the future.

    Please note: we are unable to offer both phone and text notices simultaneously. If you enroll in text notices, you will no longer receive phone notices. 

     To update your notification preferences or other account information:

    1. Log in to your account.
    2. On the menu, click My Settings.
    3. On the My Settings page, find the Account Information section.
    4. Click Change next to the setting you want to change.

    To update your notification preferences in the Basic Catalog:

    1. Sign in to My Account and click Modify Personal Information.
    2. Confirm that your phone number(s) and/or email address are correct. 
    3. Choose whether you would like to receive your notices by email or telephone. You can also sign up for SMS text notices here.
    4. Click Submit. 

    Once your requested item becomes available, you will be notified via email, phone, or text (depending on your account preference). The item will then be held for you at your chosen pickup location for one (1) week. If your requested item is not picked up within one week, your hold will expire. The item will then become available to the next member in the hold queue or released back into circulation.

    To set your PIN for the first time:

    1. Go to the My Account login page in the Basic Catalog.
    2. Enter your Library Card or eCard number in the Barcode field.
    3. Leave the PIN field blank.
    4. Click Submit.
    5. A new page will display with the message “Please enter a new PIN.”
    6. Enter an at least four-digit PIN into the New PIN and Retype new PIN fields.
    7. Click Submit.
    8. Your new PIN is set!

    Choosing a good PIN

    We highly recommend not including any of these items in your PIN: 

    • Significant dates such as your birth year or your spouse’s birthday
    • Simple number sequences like 1234 or 0000 (including repetition 1122 or 2233)
    • Any part of your social security number
    • Any part of your address or phone number

    If you don’t pick up your items from the Library Lockers within 7 days of your notification, we will return it to the library for others to borrow.

    You can place a new hold. If you place a new hold, you will need to wait until you receive a new notification that your item is ready.

    Please fill out the request form online so that your neighborhood gets consideration the next time we have an opening in the schedule. 

    Training takes about 6 weeks. Each class is about 2.5 to 3 hours long. For more specifics please contact the Fremont or Castro Valley Booklegger coordinators.

    Are you an Alameda County resident that is only interested in using our online resources? Then the eCard may be the right card for you. Our eCard is a more limited, digital-only account that will still allow you to use most of our eLibrary (see here for exceptions).

    Apply online and get instant access.

    Please note: If you do not live within Alameda County, follow the instructions above to apply for a Library Card. Non-Alameda County residents’ eCard accounts will be deleted after 30 days.

    Please note: If you change your eCard to a physical card, you will need to update to the new number when you next use hoopla Digital.  You can find instructions for doing that in the hoopla Quick Start Guide.

    The Booklegger training class assumes nothing all the skills necessary to be able to make an exciting classroom presentation are taught! We'll teach you effective methods of storytelling, how to booktalk, how to use props if you should choose to do so, how to mix genres, what books are effective at which grade levels, how to work with gifted readers, reluctant readers, and readers functioning below grade level. For several sessions, we have experienced guest speakers to give their tips and expert advice for successful booklegging. We'll have you practice your new skills in the training class and you'll be able to visit actual classrooms full of kids!

    Extended Services Library Cards are intended to ease access to library materials for our members with disabilities or mobility issues. These cards allow members to borrow items for 30 days (as opposed to the normal 21 days). 

    To have an account updated to an Extended Services Library Card, the member just needs to show some form of verification of disability, including (but not limited to):

    • A statement or letter on a physician's/medical professional's letterhead stationary.
    • A statement, record, or letter from a government agency that issues or provides disability benefits.
    • Certification from a vocational rehabilitation counselor or another counselor that issues or provides disability benefits.

    If you cannot easily provide this verification, just speak with your local Alameda County Library staff or contact Accessibility Services. We'll find a solution.

    Members that have a hard time physically visiting a library may also be interested in adding an Additional User to their account (to designate another person that is allowed to pick up and borrow library items on their behalf).

    The number of items you can borrow or place on hold depends on your account type.

      Total Physical Items Video (DVDs, BluRays) Audio (Audiobooks, Music CDs) eDevices (Tech It Out) eBooks & eAudioBooks
    Library Cards & Extended Services Cards 100 20 20 2 10 per platform
    Welcome Cards 15 10 10 2 10 per platform
    eCards 0 0 0 0 10 per platform

    All Alameda County Library items check out for 3 weeks with the exception of in-library-use-only electronic devices.

    Your borrowed items may be renewed up to 2 times unless there is a hold on the item from another member, you owe $10.00 or more in fees, or you have an item that is 10 or more days late.

    Items borrowed from other libraries through Link + are subject to the borrowing policies of the owning library.

    Check that you’re entering the correct library card number. If your Library Locker still won’t open, message us anytime or call us at 510-745-1515 during these hours:

    • Tuesday: 12:00 pm – 8:00 pm
    • Wednesday and Thursday: 11:00 am – 6:00 pm
    • Friday and Saturday: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm

    We love all animals, but pets, emotional support animals, and other animals that have not been trained to perform specific acts directly related to an individual’s disability are not allowed into our libraries. Service animals are always welcome in our libraries.

    The information below is a summary of our fines and fees. Please see our Policies page for the full text of our Borrowing Policy.

    Please note, as of January 2022, cash registers have been removed from our libraries. Charges for replacement materials may be paid in the following ways:

    • Online by credit card by logging into your account in the basic catalog.
    • At a Library location (not available at Niles or Mobile & Outreach Services) at a printing kiosk. Kiosks accept credit cards, and $1 and $5 bills.
    • Mail a check to our finance office. Please include your library card number beginning with 21157 on the check. You may also bring a check to your local Library instead of mailing.
      Mail to:
      Alameda County Library Finance
      2450 Stevenson Blvd.
      Fremont, CA 94538

    Late Returns

    All Books, Media, & Magazines - we no longer charge daily overdue fines for late items.

    Lost or Damaged Items

    • Alameda County Library bills members the cost of any item more than 21 days past its due date. This bill is waived upon return of the item in good condition.
    • An item will be billed for damage if, due to misuse or negligence on the part of the borrower, it is no longer fit to loan.
    • A member’s borrowing privileges are suspended if the member is billed for any item. Borrowing privileges are restored once the outstanding issues are resolved.
    All Books, Media, Magazines, and Equipment
    • List price, if indicated by the publisher, or...
    • Cover price, if indicated on the item, or...
    • Price determined and listed in the Library's catalog (for items without a cover or list price in US Dollars)

    After you've signed up for an eCard, make sure to take down the number you are provided. Once you've done that, you'll need to get a PIN. You can do that by following the instructions here. You will need a PIN to use most of our resources.

    We have a number of eBook & eAudiobook vendors. Each of them is described in our Quick Start Guide. There you will find information about apps you might need, and getting started guides.  

    If you have questions, remember that you can always contact us through our eResources email form and we'll get back to you as soon as we can!

    Unfortunately, we are no longer able to offer Acorn TV as of May 14, 2021.  You can find some Acorn TV content at hoopla Digital.  

    If you love Acorn TV, check out our list of similar content from hoopla Digital.

    Discover & Go is a program your library provides that offers free and low-cost passes for museums, science centers, zoos, theatres, and other cultural destinations. You must meet your library's minimum age requirement and live within your library's service area to use the Discover & Go Service.

    Check out our Quick Start Guide to Discover & Go for detailed information.

    No. Unfortunately we can't transfer existing holds from the Mobile Library to the Library Lockers. If you missed the Mobile Library, you may cancel your holds and request them again for the Library Lockers.

    At OverDrive you can have 10 items checked out and 10 items on hold at any time.  eMagazines and Libby Extras do not count against your checkout limit. For more information about OverDrive/Libby, take a look at our Quick Start Guide.

    LinkedIn Learning for Libraries is somewhat different from the commercial version of the product in that library users do not provide their name or email address, and cannot connect their learning to LinkedIn.  For this reason, there is no way for the LinkedIn Learning system to add a name to a completion certificate. 

    You can download copies of your completion certificates, but they will always be anonymous.  Unfortunately, We do not have a way to change these certificates. 

    With Shoutbomb's text message service, you can use a variety of text commands to help manage your AC Library account:

    English Spanish Simplified Chinese Description 
    ADDCARD ADDCARD 添加卡 Register additional cards on the same phone
    ANNOUNCEMENTS ANNOUNCEMENTS ANNOUNCEMENTS Turn on/off library announcements (this service is set to be ON by default)
    CXH CXH 取消待取 Cancel holds ready for pickup. If canceling multiple holds, select the number next to the title and put a space between each number.
    DROPCARD DROPCARD 移除卡 Unregister cards added with ADDCARD
    FEES TASA 费用 Turn on/off notices about your fees (this service is set to be OFF by default)
    HELP AYUDA 帮助 Get information about all Shoutbomb keywords
    HL HL HL Get a list of holds that are ready for pickup
    HOLDS MANTENER 预定 Turn on/off notices about items that are ready for pickup (this service is set to be ON by default)
    IOWEU TEDEBO 欠款 List of fee/fine balance under each registered card
    MYBOOKS MISLIBROS 我的书 Get a list of checkouts, holds, and account balance
    MYCARDS MISTARJETAS 我的卡 Get a list of registered cards and their expiration dates
    NOTICES AVISOS 通知 Get a list the types of notices you have opted in to receive
    OA OA OA Renew all eligible overdue items
    OI OI OI Get a list of overdue items that are not eligible for renewal
    OL OL OL Get a list of overdue items
    OVERDUE ATRASADO 逾期 Turn on/off notices about items that are ready for pickup (this service is set to be ON by default)
    OW OW OW Get a list of reasons overdue item is not eligible for renewal
    RA RA RA Renew all eligible items
    RENEW RENOVAR 续订 Turn on/off notices about items you can renew (this service is set to be ON by default)
    RESEND REENVIAR 重发 View messages from the last three days.
    RI RI RI Get a list of items coming due that cannot be renewed
    RL RL RL Get a list of items you can renew
    RW RW RW Get a list of reasons an item is not eligible for renewal
    NF NF 停止费用通知 Stop receiving fine/fees balance reminders
    QUIT SALIR 退出 Cancel registration for Shoutbomb text notices
    SWITCHPHONE CAMBIARTELEFONO 新号码 Change the phone number receiving texts
    TEST PRUEBA 测试 Test your connection to the service
    YF YF 继续费用通知 Get fine/fees balance reminders

    If you would like to update the language in which you receive your circulation notices, please submit a request online or contact any of our locations.

    We currently offer email notices in the following languages:

    • English
    • Spanish
    • Simplified Chinese

    We offer phone notices in the following languages:

    • English
    • Mandarin Chinese
    • Spanish

    A California State Library Parks Pass is a borrowable pass that grants free vehicle day-use entry to over 200 participating state park units operated by State Parks. The pass is valid for entry of one passenger vehicle with capacity of nine people or less or one highway licensed motorcycle.

    Alameda County Library Cardholders can borrow a California State Library Parks Pass for 21 days from any of our libraries. See current availability or place a hold on a California State Library Parks Pass.

    Please note that not all state parks are participating in this program. For details, visit the interactive map of participating state parks, or the list of parks not accepting the pass.

    Classroom Cards are special AC Library accounts that allow teachers to borrow more items, for longer, for classroom use.

      Classroom Card Library Card
    Max number of items 170 100
    Loan period 28 days; 2 renewals 21 days; 2 renewals
    Max number of holds 20 15

    Teachers, educators, administrators, school librarians, child care providers, or after school program providers who teach in Alameda County are all eligible for a Classroom Card.

    If you are a teacher who would like to apply for a Classroom Card, please complete our Classroom Card Application and bring it to any of our libraries’ Circulation Desks along with your school ID or proof of employment as an educator in Alameda County.

    During the pandemic, the vendor that provides Ancestry Library to us gave us (and many other libraries) special permission to offer the product at home since users could not come to the library.  Now that our library buildings are open again, they are going back to the original model, which only allows on-site (inside our library buildings) use.  

    At this time, remote access is not available to purchase. 

    We occasionally have technical difficulties with our eResources that make them temporarily unavailable.  If you aren't sure if the problem is with your computer/device or with our systems, you can look at our eLibrary. There is a box in the upper right side of the screen titled, "Current Technical Issues."  Any problems will be listed in that section.  

    You can report problems to us by filling in our eResources email form

    The Braille & Talking Book Library (BTBL) in Sacramento, CA is our local outpost of the National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled (NLS).  BTBL lends braille books, talking books (physical and digital audiobooks), audio magazines, and descriptive video DVDs to eligible readers in Alameda County by mail, for free!

    Who Is Eligible?

    To be eligible for BTBL service, a person must have a certified authority* confirm that she/he is permanently or temporarily:

    • Legally blind, with vision in the better eye of 20/200 or less with corrective glasses, or
    • Have a visual field no greater than 20 degrees in diameter, or
    • Be unable to see well enough or focus long enough to read standard print, even with corrective glasses, or
    • Be unable to handle print books or turn pages because of a physical disability, or
    • Be certified as having a perceptual or reading disability of sufficient severity to prevent reading printed material in the usual manner.

    *As of February 2021, certification may be made by librarians.

    Provided For FREE:

    • Talking book players
    • Audiobooks and magazines on digital cartridge (no late fees)
    • Free delivery and mailing – no postage required
    • Downloadable/streaming audiobooks and electronic braille
    • Braille

    Reading Material Available

    • Over 100,000+ books
    • 3,000 to 5,000+ new audiobooks and 600+ Braille books added each year
    • 50 new locally recorded books on California interest added each year
    • Popular magazines
    • Foreign languages

    Sign Up

    • Downloadable application: btbl.ca.gov/apply
    • Need an application mailed? Request one: btbl@library.ca.gov or 1-800-952-5666
    • Need assistance completing and/or certifying a Braille & Talking Book Library application? Ask us! In-person or online

    You can upgrade your Welcome Card to a Library Card in person at any of our locations. Simply bring your Welcome Card and identification with name and current address.

    And, for a limited time, we’re offering Welcome Card upgrades by mail.

    Upgrading your Welcome Card by mail is easy:

    1. Request a Welcome Card upgrade code.
    2. Receive your new upgrade code in the mail within a week.
    3. Verify your new account online or by phone.
    4. Start enjoying your expanded eResource access and borrowing privileges! 

    When printing at a Library computer, your print job is deleted at the end of the day.

     

    No, you may access Library computers and print as a guest. You will need to hold on to your pass to retrieve your print job and you will not be eligible for free pages as a guest user.

    Yes, color printing is available for the cost of $0.35 per page.

    Yes, Library staff can provide limited help to members using Library equipment. Some locations also have volunteer tech tutors during designated times. Call your local library for details, or check our events calendar for upcoming Computers & Technology programs.

    We do not currently have computers you may take home. Our Tech It Out Laptops are for use only within the Library.

    You may access Library desktop computers and print as a guest. You must have a Library Card to use a Tech It Out Laptop. You will need to hold on to your pass to retrieve any print jobs and you will not be eligible for free pages as a guest user.

    Computer sessions are limited to two hours per day.

    • Screens with enhanced display and blue light reduction
    • Windows Narrator
    • ZoomText
    • Large format keyboard with high visibility keys

    The following software is found on all our computers. On specific workstations we also offer assistive technology

    • MS Office Suite
    • PDF Reader
    • VLC Media Player
    • Web Browsers
      • Chrome
      • Firefox
      • Edge

    We provide desktop and laptop computers running Windows 10. Our machines were last replaced in 2020 and provide a familiar desktop experience.

    For member privacy, all of our computers are reset and wipe any data added by users at the end of every session. 

    Yes, some of our resources will let you read on your computer.

    OverDrive

    The most popular eBook vendor, OverDrive, has an app for Windows 10, you can find it in your app store by searching for Libby.  The icon has a maroon background and features a child reading.  Libby is very easy to use, and the set up is quick and easy - just follow the instructions on screen.

    If you don't have Windows 10, you can still use Libby in the browser at www.libbyapp.com.  It works exactly the same way as the app, but you cannot download eBooks or eAudiobooks.  You can also use most OverDrive eBooks and eAudiobooks in the browser directly from aclibrary.overdrive.com, but you may find that Libby is a better experience.

    If you need to download, you can choose to download eBooks to your computer by choosing the PDF or EPUB version when you check out at aclibrary.overdrive.com. You will need to have an eReader like Adobe Digital Editions installed on your computer.  You can find instructions for doing that here.

    Finally, if you would like to read Kindle eBooks on your computer, you can check them out at the OverDrive site and send them to a Kindle app on your computer.  You can learn all about checking out Kindle books here.

    If you need help with material from other resources not listed here, or if you have any questions or problems, please don't hesitate to contact us.  

    When you place a hold, choose "Mobile Library" as your pick-up location. You can email us or call (510-745-1477) to confirm the stop you would like to pick up your material. We will bring holds twice to your stop. Holds that are not picked up will be canceled.

    eBooks and eAudiobooks at Libby/OverDrive are very popular, so it may seem like there's never anything to borrow when you look at the landing page.  Happily, there's more below the surface - you just have to know how to find it.  

    The quickest way to find borrowable materials in Libby is to filter for availability:

      1. Tap on "Library" in the bottom left of the screen.
      2. Tap on the little + next to "Preferences" in the band across the top middle of the screen.
      3. Tap "Availability" and choose "Available Now".  This will filter out everything that is checked out.

    You can also place holds on checked out materials.  You can see how long you'll probably have to wait by tapping the little calendar icon next to the cover. 

    Finally, please feel free to contact us at any time with questions.  We're happy to help you find just what you want!

    If you finish your Kindle eBook before it is due, you can easily return it early.

      1. In the browser, go to www.amazon.com and sign in to your account (make sure it's the same Amazon account you used to check out the book.)
      2. Move your mouse to the menu in the upper right corner labeled "Hello [your name] Accounts & Lists." When you move your cursor over it, a menu will pop up.
      3. Scroll down until you see "Your Content and Devices." Click on it.
      4. You will be directed to a list of all of the content on your Kindle.  The default list view is books arranged in chronological order from newest to oldest, so your eBook should be near the top.  
      5. Find the title you want to return.  The word "Borrowed" in orange letters will be next to the title on the right.
      6. Find the small square box to the immediate left of the title.  It has an ellipsis "..." in it.  Click on the box.
      7. A pop-up box will appear.  Find "Return this book" and click on it.  You will be asked to confirm that you wish to return the book.  Click on "Yes."
      8. A confirmation message will pop up on the screen.  Your book is returned.

    For more Kindle help, take a look at our tutorial on Managing Your Kindle eBooks.  If you still need help with this (or any other eResource question) please feel free to contact us through the email form here.

    There are a few different reasons why you might choose to use OverDrive/Libby differently.  Read the questions below and pick what's right for you.

    • Are you an iOS or Android user?  

      If you want to read eBooks or eMagazines, listen to eAudiobooks, or get a pass for Libby Extras on an Android, or iOS device, we recommend that you use the Libby App.
      Passes for Libby Extras (The Great Courses and Craftsy) are checked out through the Libby app or the www.libbyapp.com site.  You will then be redirected to The Great Courses or the Craftsy site. 

    • Do you have a Windows or Mac Computer or laptop? 
      If you are on a  computer we recommend that you use the www.libbyapp.com site or the OverDrive site at aclibrary.overdrive.com.
    • Did you check out a streaming video?
      If you want to watch streaming video we recommend that you use the browser viewer through the OverDrive site at aclibrary.overdrive.com.
    • Are you a Kindle user?
      If you want to read Kindle eBooks, you will need to get one of Amazon's Kindle apps or use a Kindle Device. Any book that is available as a Kindle book is also available in other formats. See our Managing Kindle eBooks tutorial for more information on this.
      You can send your eBooks to Kindle using the Libby app, the www.libbyapp.com site, or the OverDrive site at aclibrary.overdrive.com.
    • Are you a Kindle Fire user?
      If you have a Kindle Fire you will have to use the OverDrive app or check out Kindle format eBooks.  The Libby App is not available for Kindle Fire.  You can also choose to use the www.libbyapp.com site in the browser.
    • Do you use a screen reader or other accessibility tools? 
      If you use a screen reader or other accessibility tools, you can use the OverDrive site at aclibrary.overdrive.com  or the Libby app. For more information about accessibility at OverDrive, check out their accessibility article.  For accessibility information specific to the Libby app, check out their Libby accessibility page.

    Need more help?

    Check out this helpful device guide from OverDrive or look at our Quick Start Guides for more info.

    If you're still not sure which app is best for you, feel free to contact us - we'd be happy to help!

    hoopla Digital has a monthly limit of 8 checkouts per library member, no matter how many items you return. Each time you borrow something, it counts toward your monthly total.

    Because hoopla charges the library per item checked out, we set a limit to stay within budget and ensure everyone can enjoy the service.

    If you find yourself reaching your monthly limit often, we encourage you to explore hoopla Digital's Bingepasses. These passes only count as one checkout or borrow.

    The only eBooks that can be downloaded through the Library's catalog at this time are from OverDrive.

    If you check out an eBook or eAudiobook through the library catalog, do not download the EPUB, PDF, or MP3 file from the browser.  You will need to move to the Libby app or the OverDrive Browser Reader to read and listen. You can find detailed instructions in our Quick Start Guides.

    If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact us through the eResources help email form.

  • Accessibility Services

    Alameda County Library is always working to make our facilities and services more welcoming and accessible.

    Available accommodations include (but are not limited to):

    Requests for specific accommodations can be made by contacting your local Alameda County Library location or Accessibility Services. More information can be found on our Accessibility page.

    Every library provides Pocketalkers for in-library use. Pocketalkers are personal sound amplifiers that help users hear more of what they want to hear and less of what they don't. They achieve this by reducing background noise and allowing the user to focus on and amplify specific sounds.

    Pocketalkers are ideal for library programs, film showings, group discussions, one-on-one conversation, and for library use in general. Using a Pocketalker is as simple as plugging in a pair of headphones (or using the included pair), positioning the microphone near the preferred sound, and adjusting the volume to your desired setting. 

    Visit any of our libraries' Reference Desks to borrow a Pocketalker for use during your next library visit. 

    In addition, we have RF (radio frequency)-based assistive listening systems from Listen Technologies at the Albany, Castro Valley, Dublin, Fremont Main and Newark libraries. These systems are great for larger events and programs. Users can adjust the volume of the presentation audio on an individual basis using an RF receiver. Simply let staff know if you would like the presenters to provide event or program audio through one of these systems. 

    If you require accommodations for a specific library program, please contact the library where the program is being held or message Accessibility Services at least seven (7) days in advance. 

    Yes! You can request an ADA-friendly Library Locker. When you place your hold, select one of these options:

    • Wally Pond Locker - ADA Accessible
    • Warm Springs Locker - ADA Accessible

    If you need help, let us know.

    Service animals are welcome in all of our libraries. We love all animals, but pets, emotional support animals, and other animals that have not been trained to perform specific acts directly related to an individual’s disability are not allowed into our libraries.

    For your convenience, Alameda County Library allows Library Cardholders to add authorized users to their account by submitting a completed Additional Users Authorization form, either online or print. These forms are also available at each location's Circulation Desk.

    An Additional User can:

    • Check out the primary member’s holds
    • Borrow and request items on the primary member’s account
    • Pay fees
    • View borrowing records and account balance

    To access the account to which one is an approved user, the Additional User must do one of the following:

    • Present the primary member’s library card
    • Present an approved form of ID, know the name and address of the member, and be listed as an approved additional user on the account
      • Please note: Exceptions to the ID requirement may be permitted for Additional Users under 13 years old.

    Revoking Additional User access must be done in person or by submitting an Additional Users Removal form, either online or in print. Copies of this form are also available at each location's Circulation Desk.

    If you require accommodations for a specific library program or event, please contact the library where the program is being held or message Accessibility Services at least seven (7) days in advance. This will help us ensure the needed accommodations are in place in time for the event.

    Yes! All TTY users can dial 888-663-0660 to contact the Alameda County Library about their accounts, the library's services, or brief reference questions.

    Alternatively, you can simply dial 711 to be connected to the California Relay Service. To have your call immediately answered in your language and preferred mode of communication, please dial using one of the numbers below:

    • TTY/VCO/HCO to Voice

      • English: 800-735-2929
      • Spanish: 800-855-3000
    • Voice to TTY/VCO/HCO

      • English: 800-735-2922
      • Spanish: 800-855-3000
    • From or To Speech-to-Speech (English & Spanish): 800-854-7784

    Extended Services Library Cards are intended to ease access to library materials for our members with disabilities or mobility issues. These cards allow members to borrow items for 30 days (as opposed to the normal 21 days). 

    To have an account updated to an Extended Services Library Card, the member just needs to show some form of verification of disability, including (but not limited to):

    • A statement or letter on a physician's/medical professional's letterhead stationary.
    • A statement, record, or letter from a government agency that issues or provides disability benefits.
    • Certification from a vocational rehabilitation counselor or another counselor that issues or provides disability benefits.

    If you cannot easily provide this verification, just speak with your local Alameda County Library staff or contact Accessibility Services. We'll find a solution.

    Members that have a hard time physically visiting a library may also be interested in adding an Additional User to their account (to designate another person that is allowed to pick up and borrow library items on their behalf).

    The Braille & Talking Book Library (BTBL) in Sacramento, CA is our local outpost of the National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled (NLS).  BTBL lends braille books, talking books (physical and digital audiobooks), audio magazines, and descriptive video DVDs to eligible readers in Alameda County by mail, for free!

    Who Is Eligible?

    To be eligible for BTBL service, a person must have a certified authority* confirm that she/he is permanently or temporarily:

    • Legally blind, with vision in the better eye of 20/200 or less with corrective glasses, or
    • Have a visual field no greater than 20 degrees in diameter, or
    • Be unable to see well enough or focus long enough to read standard print, even with corrective glasses, or
    • Be unable to handle print books or turn pages because of a physical disability, or
    • Be certified as having a perceptual or reading disability of sufficient severity to prevent reading printed material in the usual manner.

    *As of February 2021, certification may be made by librarians.

    Provided For FREE:

    • Talking book players
    • Audiobooks and magazines on digital cartridge (no late fees)
    • Free delivery and mailing – no postage required
    • Downloadable/streaming audiobooks and electronic braille
    • Braille

    Reading Material Available

    • Over 100,000+ books
    • 3,000 to 5,000+ new audiobooks and 600+ Braille books added each year
    • 50 new locally recorded books on California interest added each year
    • Popular magazines
    • Foreign languages

    Sign Up

    • Downloadable application: btbl.ca.gov/apply
    • Need an application mailed? Request one: btbl@library.ca.gov or 1-800-952-5666
    • Need assistance completing and/or certifying a Braille & Talking Book Library application? Ask us! In-person or online

    • Screens with enhanced display and blue light reduction
    • Windows Narrator
    • ZoomText
    • Large format keyboard with high visibility keys
  • Booklegger

    Adults who have some availability during regular school hours (8:30 a.m. through 2:30 p.m., Monday through Friday) can become Bookleggers. The main qualifications are a love of reading and a desire to share that love with children. There are no educational prerequisites or financial requirements. Books used for volunteering are available for checkout from the Alameda County Library.

    During the COVID-19 pandemic, we are not accepting new Bookleggers or visiting classrooms. 

    In Fremont, Bookleggers visit elementary school classrooms, grades 2 to 5. In Castro Valley, Bookleggers visit elementary school classrooms, grades K to 5. The number of classrooms each semester depends on each school district’s needs.

    During training, class time is 2.5 to 3 hours weekly, and homework time is about the same. After training, the time commitment varies depending on the grade level and school district.

    Bookleggers indicate their preferences for grade level and school sites. The volunteer coordinators make every effort to honor those preferences.

    There is a select list of books that the Library stocks in abundance for the Bookleggers to use. Bookleggers have a wide variety to choose from within this list but are not permitted to use books outside of the list. The books for this list are chosen based on recommendations by library staff, volunteers, teachers, and families. The Booklegger list does not focus on books that children might already know, like award winners, best-sellers, or classroom classics. Instead, Booklegger books focus on great stories, unique characters, and diverse appeal.

    Kids love Bookleggers! Families frequently come to the library right after a Booklegger has visited to get the books that were shared. We hear from students who felt like readers for the first time after a Booklegger visited, or who tried a new genre and were surprised to find they loved it!

    Training takes about 6 weeks. Each class is about 2.5 to 3 hours long. For more specifics please contact the Fremont or Castro Valley Booklegger coordinators.

    The Booklegger training class assumes nothing all the skills necessary to be able to make an exciting classroom presentation are taught! We'll teach you effective methods of storytelling, how to booktalk, how to use props if you should choose to do so, how to mix genres, what books are effective at which grade levels, how to work with gifted readers, reluctant readers, and readers functioning below grade level. For several sessions, we have experienced guest speakers to give their tips and expert advice for successful booklegging. We'll have you practice your new skills in the training class and you'll be able to visit actual classrooms full of kids!

  • Computers

    Yes, Library staff can provide limited help to members using Library equipment. Some locations also have volunteer tech tutors during designated times. Call your local library for details, or check our events calendar for upcoming Computers & Technology programs.

    We do not currently have computers you may take home. Our Tech It Out Laptops are for use only within the Library.

    You may access Library desktop computers and print as a guest. You must have a Library Card to use a Tech It Out Laptop. You will need to hold on to your pass to retrieve any print jobs and you will not be eligible for free pages as a guest user.

    Computer sessions are limited to two hours per day.

    • Screens with enhanced display and blue light reduction
    • Windows Narrator
    • ZoomText
    • Large format keyboard with high visibility keys

    The following software is found on all our computers. On specific workstations we also offer assistive technology

    • MS Office Suite
    • PDF Reader
    • VLC Media Player
    • Web Browsers
      • Chrome
      • Firefox
      • Edge

    We provide desktop and laptop computers running Windows 10. Our machines were last replaced in 2020 and provide a familiar desktop experience.

    For member privacy, all of our computers are reset and wipe any data added by users at the end of every session. 

  • eLibrary

    After you've signed up for an eCard, make sure to take down the number you are provided. Once you've done that, you'll need to get a PIN. You can do that by following the instructions here. You will need a PIN to use most of our resources.

    We have a number of eBook & eAudiobook vendors. Each of them is described in our Quick Start Guide. There you will find information about apps you might need, and getting started guides.  

    If you have questions, remember that you can always contact us through our eResources email form and we'll get back to you as soon as we can!

    We occasionally have technical difficulties with our eResources that make them temporarily unavailable.  If you aren't sure if the problem is with your computer/device or with our systems, you can look at our eLibrary. There is a box in the upper right side of the screen titled, "Current Technical Issues."  Any problems will be listed in that section.  

    You can report problems to us by filling in our eResources email form

    Yes, some of our resources will let you read on your computer.

    OverDrive

    The most popular eBook vendor, OverDrive, has an app for Windows 10, you can find it in your app store by searching for Libby.  The icon has a maroon background and features a child reading.  Libby is very easy to use, and the set up is quick and easy - just follow the instructions on screen.

    If you don't have Windows 10, you can still use Libby in the browser at www.libbyapp.com.  It works exactly the same way as the app, but you cannot download eBooks or eAudiobooks.  You can also use most OverDrive eBooks and eAudiobooks in the browser directly from aclibrary.overdrive.com, but you may find that Libby is a better experience.

    If you need to download, you can choose to download eBooks to your computer by choosing the PDF or EPUB version when you check out at aclibrary.overdrive.com. You will need to have an eReader like Adobe Digital Editions installed on your computer.  You can find instructions for doing that here.

    Finally, if you would like to read Kindle eBooks on your computer, you can check them out at the OverDrive site and send them to a Kindle app on your computer.  You can learn all about checking out Kindle books here.

    If you need help with material from other resources not listed here, or if you have any questions or problems, please don't hesitate to contact us.  

    There are a few different reasons why you might choose to use OverDrive/Libby differently.  Read the questions below and pick what's right for you.

    • Are you an iOS or Android user?  

      If you want to read eBooks or eMagazines, listen to eAudiobooks, or get a pass for Libby Extras on an Android, or iOS device, we recommend that you use the Libby App.
      Passes for Libby Extras (The Great Courses and Craftsy) are checked out through the Libby app or the www.libbyapp.com site.  You will then be redirected to The Great Courses or the Craftsy site. 

    • Do you have a Windows or Mac Computer or laptop? 
      If you are on a  computer we recommend that you use the www.libbyapp.com site or the OverDrive site at aclibrary.overdrive.com.
    • Did you check out a streaming video?
      If you want to watch streaming video we recommend that you use the browser viewer through the OverDrive site at aclibrary.overdrive.com.
    • Are you a Kindle user?
      If you want to read Kindle eBooks, you will need to get one of Amazon's Kindle apps or use a Kindle Device. Any book that is available as a Kindle book is also available in other formats. See our Managing Kindle eBooks tutorial for more information on this.
      You can send your eBooks to Kindle using the Libby app, the www.libbyapp.com site, or the OverDrive site at aclibrary.overdrive.com.
    • Are you a Kindle Fire user?
      If you have a Kindle Fire you will have to use the OverDrive app or check out Kindle format eBooks.  The Libby App is not available for Kindle Fire.  You can also choose to use the www.libbyapp.com site in the browser.
    • Do you use a screen reader or other accessibility tools? 
      If you use a screen reader or other accessibility tools, you can use the OverDrive site at aclibrary.overdrive.com  or the Libby app. For more information about accessibility at OverDrive, check out their accessibility article.  For accessibility information specific to the Libby app, check out their Libby accessibility page.

    Need more help?

    Check out this helpful device guide from OverDrive or look at our Quick Start Guides for more info.

    If you're still not sure which app is best for you, feel free to contact us - we'd be happy to help!

    hoopla Digital has a monthly limit of 8 checkouts per library member, no matter how many items you return. Each time you borrow something, it counts toward your monthly total.

    Because hoopla charges the library per item checked out, we set a limit to stay within budget and ensure everyone can enjoy the service.

    If you find yourself reaching your monthly limit often, we encourage you to explore hoopla Digital's Bingepasses. These passes only count as one checkout or borrow.

    The only eBooks that can be downloaded through the Library's catalog at this time are from OverDrive.

    If you check out an eBook or eAudiobook through the library catalog, do not download the EPUB, PDF, or MP3 file from the browser.  You will need to move to the Libby app or the OverDrive Browser Reader to read and listen. You can find detailed instructions in our Quick Start Guides.

    If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact us through the eResources help email form.

  • Library Accounts

    We are now accepting returns at any time! You may return items to any of our Alameda County Library locations, no matter which location they were originally checked out from. Book drops may be closed if full.

    We are not accepting donations at this time, and return receipts are unavailable.

    All eligible AC Library items renew automatically three (3) days before their due date, and most can be renewed twice. However, if you decide that you would like to renew your items ahead of that date, you can do so online or by phone 24/7.

    To Renew Your Items Online

    Renewing a Single Item

    1. Log in to your account.

    2. On the menu, click Checked Out.

    3. Find the title you want to renew.

    4. Click the Renew button below the item.

    5. A popup message will let you know if your renewal was successful.

    Renewing Multiple Items

    1.Log in to your account.

    2. On the menu, click Checked Out.

    3. If necessary, filter your checkouts by clicking Overdue, Next due or Due later under the My Borrowing summary on the left of the page.

    4. Do one of the following:

    • Click the checkbox next to each item you want to renew
    • Click the checkbox above the items to select all of the items on the page.

    5. A bar appears at the bottom of the page. Click Renew selected. The number of items affected appears in brackets on the menu.

    6. A popup message will let you know if your renewals were successful.

    To Renew Your Items by Telephone

    Have your library card number and the barcode numbers for the items you wish to renew ready, then call 510-790-8096 and follow the automated instructions. Our telephone renewal service is available in English, Mandarin, and Spanish.

    Reasons Why Your Renewal Wasn't Successful

    Unable to renew? Your renewal request might not have been completed for the following reasons: 

    • Another member has put a hold on the item.
    • Your library balance is $10.00 or more.
    • An item on your record is ten or more days overdue.
    • The item has already been renewed twice.
    • Your library card account needs to be updated.

    If you are interested in donating material, please contact your local library first to inquire. 

    If we are not the right fit for your donation, StopWaste.org may help you locate another option in your community.

    Link+ is a free interlibrary loan service that allows our members to request books, audiobooks, CDs, DVDs, Blu-rays, and VHS from over 60 other libraries throughout California.

    Library Cardholders can request any books or media unavailable from Alameda County Library and have them delivered to their local library. 

    Some details about using Link+:
    • Requested items usually arrive within 4 days and will be held for up to 10 days.
    • The loan period is 3 weeks with 1 renewal if there is no one waiting for the item.
    • Renewals can be requested within 3 days of the due date. 
    • Members may have 15 Link+ transactions at a time.
    • Please note: there is a charge of up to $115.00 for lost or damaged Link+ materials.
    How to request an item through Link+:

    If your AC Library catalog search shows that we don't own the item that you would like to borrow, click Try Your Search in Link+. This will automatically transfer your search terms to the Link+ catalog.

    When you find the item you would like to borrow, click the Request It button, then select "Alameda County Public" from the dropdown menu on the next screen. Finally, enter your name, Library Card number, choose your desired pickup location and click Submit.

    You'll be contacted by email, phone, or text as soon as your requested item is available.

    The number of items you can borrow or place on hold depends on your account type.

      Total Physical Items Video (DVDs, BluRays) Audio (Audiobooks, Music CDs) eDevices (Tech It Out) eBooks & eAudioBooks
    Library Cards & Extended Services Cards 100 20 20 2 10 per platform
    Welcome Cards 15 10 10 2 10 per platform
    eCards 0 0 0 0 10 per platform

    All Alameda County Library items check out for 3 weeks with the exception of in-library-use-only electronic devices.

    Your borrowed items may be renewed up to 2 times unless there is a hold on the item from another member, you owe $10.00 or more in fees, or you have an item that is 10 or more days late.

    Items borrowed from other libraries through Link + are subject to the borrowing policies of the owning library.

    We love all animals, but pets, emotional support animals, and other animals that have not been trained to perform specific acts directly related to an individual’s disability are not allowed into our libraries. Service animals are always welcome in our libraries.

    The information below is a summary of our fines and fees. Please see our Policies page for the full text of our Borrowing Policy.

    Please note, as of January 2022, cash registers have been removed from our libraries. Charges for replacement materials may be paid in the following ways:

    • Online by credit card by logging into your account in the basic catalog.
    • At a Library location (not available at Niles or Mobile & Outreach Services) at a printing kiosk. Kiosks accept credit cards, and $1 and $5 bills.
    • Mail a check to our finance office. Please include your library card number beginning with 21157 on the check. You may also bring a check to your local Library instead of mailing.
      Mail to:
      Alameda County Library Finance
      2450 Stevenson Blvd.
      Fremont, CA 94538

    Late Returns

    All Books, Media, & Magazines - we no longer charge daily overdue fines for late items.

    Lost or Damaged Items

    • Alameda County Library bills members the cost of any item more than 21 days past its due date. This bill is waived upon return of the item in good condition.
    • An item will be billed for damage if, due to misuse or negligence on the part of the borrower, it is no longer fit to loan.
    • A member’s borrowing privileges are suspended if the member is billed for any item. Borrowing privileges are restored once the outstanding issues are resolved.
    All Books, Media, Magazines, and Equipment
    • List price, if indicated by the publisher, or...
    • Cover price, if indicated on the item, or...
    • Price determined and listed in the Library's catalog (for items without a cover or list price in US Dollars)

    A California State Library Parks Pass is a borrowable pass that grants free vehicle day-use entry to over 200 participating state park units operated by State Parks. The pass is valid for entry of one passenger vehicle with capacity of nine people or less or one highway licensed motorcycle.

    Alameda County Library Cardholders can borrow a California State Library Parks Pass for 21 days from any of our libraries. See current availability or place a hold on a California State Library Parks Pass.

    Please note that not all state parks are participating in this program. For details, visit the interactive map of participating state parks, or the list of parks not accepting the pass.

    Classroom Cards are special AC Library accounts that allow teachers to borrow more items, for longer, for classroom use.

      Classroom Card Library Card
    Max number of items 170 100
    Loan period 28 days; 2 renewals 21 days; 2 renewals
    Max number of holds 20 15

    Teachers, educators, administrators, school librarians, child care providers, or after school program providers who teach in Alameda County are all eligible for a Classroom Card.

    If you are a teacher who would like to apply for a Classroom Card, please complete our Classroom Card Application and bring it to any of our libraries’ Circulation Desks along with your school ID or proof of employment as an educator in Alameda County.

  • Library Events

    Service animals are welcome in all of our libraries. We love all animals, but pets, emotional support animals, and other animals that have not been trained to perform specific acts directly related to an individual’s disability are not allowed into our libraries.

    If you require accommodations for a specific library program or event, please contact the library where the program is being held or message Accessibility Services at least seven (7) days in advance. This will help us ensure the needed accommodations are in place in time for the event.

  • Makerspace

    Yes.

    You need a reservation to use equipment on your own. 3D printers require a reservation, and reservations are recommended for all other equipment to make sure it’s available when you arrive.

    Please submit your request at least 4 days in advance so staff can review and confirm your appointment.

    If you're attending a class or event, you don't need a separate reservation.

    Related Pages: The Spark, 3D Printer, Sewing Machine, Die Cutting, Large Format Printing, Fremont Library

    You can use 3D printers, sewing machines, a die cutter, and a large-format printer.

    To get started, you’ll need:

    • A library card
    • A signed waiver
    • A reservation to use equipment, or you can attend an event.

    We welcome beginners and experienced makers alike.

    Related Pages: The Spark, 3D Printer, Sewing Machine, Die Cutting, Large Format Printing, Fremont Library

    Anyone with a library card, a signed waiver, and a reservation can use the equipment. The Spark is open to all experience levels—beginners are welcome.

    Youth under 18 need a parent or guardian to sign the waiver. Some equipment has age limits for supervision—check the equipment pages for details.

    Related Pages: The Spark, 3D Printer, Sewing Machine, Die Cutting, Large Format Printing, Fremont Library

    Yes—with supervision, depending on age and equipment.

    • Under 13: Supervision required for 3D printers and sewing machines
    • Under 10: Supervision required for the die cutter
    • Under 9: Supervision required for the large-format printer

    About Waivers:

    • For anyone under 18, a parent or guardian must sign the waiver on their behalf.
    • If that adult is supervising during equipment use, they also need their own signed waiver.
    • Waivers only need to be signed once.

    Check the equipment pages for full age and supervision details.

    Related Pages: The Spark, 3D Printer, Sewing Machine, Die Cutting, Large Format Printing, Fremont Library

    It depends on the event, the equipment used, and who's attending.

    Some events require a library card, a signed waiver, or active supervision by a parent or guardian—especially for some youth using equipment.

    Check the event listing details to see what's needed before you attend.

    Related Pages: Events at The Spark, The Spark, 3D Printer, Sewing Machine, Die Cutting, Large Format Printing, Fremont Library

  • Mobile Library

    We operate very similarly to your Community Library, although we do not offer printing or computer services. All you need to check-out materials is an AC Library card. If your card is expired or you need a new or replacement card, we can help you on the Mobile Library, with or without an ID. If you do not have an ID, we can issue a welcome card with limited borrowing privileges.  

    Yes, you can return Mobile Library items to any AC Library location. If you need to return items that you checked out at one of our Community Libraries, we can accept them on the Mobile Library.

    In general, all items are due back on the date of our next scheduled stop.

    Our library is now fine free, so if you return your library materials on our next visit you will not be charged any fines. If you'd prefer not to wait, check out our list of locations to find the closest library to return items. If you need further assistance with your account, please give us a call, 510-745-1477, and we'll be happy to help. 

    Please fill out the request form online so that your neighborhood gets consideration the next time we have an opening in the schedule. 

    No. Unfortunately we can't transfer existing holds from the Mobile Library to the Library Lockers. If you missed the Mobile Library, you may cancel your holds and request them again for the Library Lockers.

    When you place a hold, choose "Mobile Library" as your pick-up location. You can email us or call (510-745-1477) to confirm the stop you would like to pick up your material. We will bring holds twice to your stop. Holds that are not picked up will be canceled.

  • You may print from any of our Library computers, or from anywhere on your own device.

    Use a Library Computer
    You can print using the default settings on the computer and pickup your job at a Kiosk in the Library.

    At the Kiosk, enter your Library Card & PIN to retrieve the print job. You will be prompted to choose options as well as to pay by cash or credit card.

    Print from anywhere on your own device (SmartAlec)
    You can send print jobs for pickup at any AC Library using our SmartAlec service. Visit the link and enter your Library Card & PIN information. Non-members can also go through similar steps, but will be required to create a guest account to use this service. SmartAlec is also available as a free download on Android and iOS

    After logging-in, you will be able to upload a document to print. You may visit any of our locations to complete the printing process at a Kiosk in the Library. 

    Only pdf, doc, docx, xls, xlsx, ppt, pptx, csv, txt, html, rtf, jpg, png, bmp, jpeg, and heic files are compatible.

    • Printing or copying black and white pages costs $0.15 per page
    • Printing or copying color pages costs $0.35 per page
    • Scanning is free - Please contact your local Library for the latest on scanning availability. 
    • For fax costs, please contact your local library

    At present, AC Library cardholders can print up to ten (10) black and white pages per day free of charge from a Library computer or your personal device. We are unable to provide this benefit for photocopies or to members without a Library Card. The number of free prints available may change at any time due to costs.

    Costs may be paid at the print Kiosk by cash or credit card (Visa, Mastercard, or Amex).

    Your privacy is something we take very seriously. There are two parts of keeping your print information confidential, the physical access and the digital storage.

    For physical access to your print job, only someone who enters your Library Card number and PIN can view information about your printing at the print Kiosk. A digital copy is kept on the print Kiosk in case the printer jams, only until the end of the day or until manually deleted by staff at your request.

    For Online Printing, SmartAlec jobs are transmitted over TLS 1.2 network protocols. These jobs are encrypted and stored in a database for seven days to provide time for you to visit and pick them up. If you wish, you can log in and delete your own uploads from the database prior to the automatic deletion.

    Yes, you can print from your own computer at the library or from anywhere in the world with internet access.

    Cloud printing of documents is available for mobile devices and computers using a web upload or by installing the Smart Alec App (iOS / Android).

    Yes, the multifunction printers at the Library can scan to email or a USB drive. There is no charge for this service.

    As of May 2022, scanning equipment is down at many locations. Please contact your local Library for the latest on scanning availability. 

    Yes, specialized equipment is available to send a fax. Please contact your local library to confirm availability and cost for faxing.

    When printing at a Library computer, your print job is deleted at the end of the day.

     

    No, you may access Library computers and print as a guest. You will need to hold on to your pass to retrieve your print job and you will not be eligible for free pages as a guest user.

    Yes, color printing is available for the cost of $0.35 per page.