You must provide a valid photo I.D. with your current address (generally a Texas Driver’s License or Texas I.D.). Parents or guardians must sign applications for children under 18 and provide an ID document for that child.
For details about acceptable alternative forms of identification, you may call the Circulation Department at (832) 393-2222, M-F 10-6 and Sat 10-5. Or email us at circinfo@houstontx.gov.
Receive temporary access to Houston Public Library resources, including the ability to access library databases, place holds on materials and add your own customer reviews to titles in the catalog.
Sign-up for your Power Card and get full access to all library services, including the ability to check out books, audiobooks, DVDs, and CDs and renew them online.
Place your holds from home and get email notification for pick-up.There is a maximum of 15 holds per library card at any one time. Ask your branch librarian if you need help with this service. Pick-up and check-out your items at the library location you choose. Check out period is two weeks.
To renew your own items, view or cancel holds, or update your account information.
- Renew items in person at the Central Library or any branch.
- Call the Library's 24-hour renewal line (832) 393-2280.
- Call any hpl location library during their operating hours. (Check our Library Card FAQ before renewing after hours. You must have your library card number to renew by phone.)
Questions About Your Library Card or Account?