You can use the online catalog to place requests for books to be sent to the library branch of your choice for pickup. Requests can be made on computers at the library or from your home computer.
Requests may not be made for reference books or certain other types of materials.
You must have a valid Wake County library card and a PIN to place a request. If you already have a library card but you need a PIN, call your local library branch or get one the next time you visit the library.
How to Request a Book
1. Use the online catalog to search for a book.
2. Once you have identified a title, you will need to get to the Item Information screen, as seen below. This screen describes the book and lists the locations that own the book. If you are looking at a list of titles, clicking on the title should take you to this screen.
3. If you are doing a search while at the library, scroll down to see if a copy is Checked In at that library. If there is a copy Checked In, you do not need to place a request. If you cannot find the book on the shelf, ask a staff member for assistance.
4. To place a request, click on the Request Item button on the far right below the title information.
5. The next window requires your library card number and PIN.
6. Enter the entire 14-digit barcode from the back of your library card. Do not use any spaces or hyphens.
7. Enter your PIN and click the Login button.
8. This will bring up the Request Confirmation window. Choose the location where you want to pick up your book by clicking the down arrow and highlighting the desired library branch. Then click the blue Request button.
9. The next window confirms your request and lists how you will be notified and your desired pickup location. Click the blue Return to Searching button at the bottom right to continue searching the catalog.
10. When your requested book is ready for pickup, you will receive an e-mail notification or a computer-generated phone message. If you prefer to receive notices in the mail, contact a library staff member.
Library branches pull books to fill holds one or more times daily. If you are searching the catalog at home and want to come in that day to pick up a book that is currently checked in, you should call the library and ask them to hold it for you.
Maintenance Window
Server maintenance and backup is conducted on Sunday mornings from 7-11 a.m. The online catalog, telephone renewal service and electronic databases may not be accessible during this time.
Can't Find Your Book?
If the book you are looking for is not available in the Wake County Public Libraries catalog, you may wish to consult with a staff member to see what alternative sources are available. If you specifically need that particular book, we may be able to borrow it from another library system using our Interlibrary Loan service.