The Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh is a free public library system with 19 locations across the city, plus digital resources you can reach from home

The Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh is run by the city and funded through tax dollars, which means you do not pay to use it. You can walk into any of the 19 branch locations without a card to browse, but you will need a library card to check out books, use computers, or access digital materials. A card is free to anyone who lives, works, or goes to school in Allegheny County. You can get one in person at any branch or online through their website.

The system holds millions of books, audiobooks, DVDs, and magazines across all branches. Beyond physical materials, the library offers digital access to e-books, databases, streaming services, and research tools — many of which you can use from your computer or phone at home. The library also runs programs like job training workshops, children's story time, teen events, and computer classes. Most of these programs are free.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a free library card to check out materials or use most services, though you can visit any branch without one.
  • The library card works at all 19 branches, so you can return a book to a different location than where you borrowed it.
  • Digital resources like e-books and streaming services are available 24/7 through the library's website if you have a card.
  • The library runs free programs for children, teens, and adults, including job workshops and computer classes.
  • You can place a hold on a book at any branch and pick it up when it arrives, usually within one to three weeks.

Getting a Library Card

A library card is free and takes about five minutes to obtain. You can explore online at the Carnegie Library website, or you can walk into any branch and fill out a form in person. If you explore online, you will receive a temporary digital card when ready that works for e-books and digital resources right away. Your physical card will arrive by mail within one to two weeks.

To get a card, you need to prove you live, work, or go to school in Allegheny County. Acceptable documents include a driver's license, state ID, lease agreement, utility bill, pay stub, or school ID. If you do not have a permanent address, you can use the address of a shelter, social service agency, or trusted contact. Children under 18 can get a card with a parent or guardian present.

If you already have a card and it has expired, you can renew it online or at any branch. The library will send you a renewal notice by mail when your card is about to expire, but you do not have to wait for it — you can renew anytime.

Finding Books and Materials

The Carnegie Library's online catalog lets you search for books, audiobooks, DVDs, and other materials from home. You can see which branch has a copy, whether it is currently available, and how many people are waiting for it. If the item you want is checked out, you can place a hold and the library will notify you by email or phone when it arrives at your chosen branch.

If you are not sure what you are looking for, librarians at any branch can help you find materials on a topic or recommend books based on what you like to read. You can also ask for help by phone, email, or through the library's website chat. Many branches have dedicated staff who specialize in children's materials, teen resources, or research topics.

The library also offers interlibrary loan, which means if another library system in Pennsylvania or nearby states has a book you want, the Carnegie Library can request it for you. This usually takes longer — sometimes two to four weeks — but it expands what you can borrow beyond the Carnegie system's own collection.

Digital Resources You Can Use at Home

With a library card, you can access e-books through Libby and Hoopla, which are apps you read to your phone or tablet. Libby has a large collection of fiction and nonfiction, and you can borrow up to 50 items at once. Hoopla offers when ready borrowing with no waiting list, though the collection is smaller. Both apps are free once you link your library card.

The library also offers streaming services through your card. Kanopy lets you watch documentaries, independent films, and educational videos. Hoopla includes movies and TV shows alongside books and audiobooks. Freegal gives you access to music streaming and the ability to read songs. These services are included with your card at no extra cost.

For research and learning, the library provides access to databases like Ancestry.com, Consumer Reports, and various academic databases. If you are looking for job training materials, the library offers LinkedIn Learning, which has thousands of courses on professional skills, software, and career development. You can watch these courses on demand from home.

Computer Access and Technology Help

Every Carnegie Library branch has public computers you can use for free with your library card. You can reserve a computer online or ask at the front desk. Most branches have time limits during busy hours — typically one to three hours per day — but you can book another session if computers are available. The computers have internet access, Microsoft Office, and common software.

If you need help using a computer or learning basic technology skills, many branches offer free classes. Topics include email, internet searching, Microsoft Word, job applications, and social media. Some branches also offer one-on-one technology help by appointment. Call your local branch or check the library's website to see what classes are scheduled.

The library also offers free WiFi at all branches, so you can bring your own device and connect without a password. This is useful if you need internet at home but do not have a connection, or if you want to work in a quiet public space.

Programs for Children, Teens, and Adults

The Carnegie Library runs free programs throughout the year. For young children, most branches offer story time sessions where librarians read books and sing songs with kids ages 2 to 5. Older children can join after-school programs, summer reading clubs, and craft activities. Teen programs include book clubs, gaming events, and job preparation workshops.

Adults can attend job search workshops, resume writing classes, and financial literacy sessions. The library also hosts author talks, book clubs, and lectures on topics like history and science. Many branches have community meeting rooms you can reserve for free or low cost if you are organizing a neighborhood group or nonprofit event.

Program schedules vary by branch and change seasonally. You can find a full list of upcoming programs on the Carnegie Library website, or call your local branch to ask what is happening this month. Most programs require no registration, but some popular events ask you to sign up in advance.

Branch Locations and Hours

The Carnegie Library has 19 branches across Pittsburgh, from the main library downtown to smaller neighborhood locations. Each branch has different hours — some are open early morning to evening on weekdays, while others have shorter hours or are closed on certain days. The main library on Penn Avenue is typically open the longest hours, including some evening and weekend times.

You can find the address, phone number, and hours for each branch on the Carnegie Library website. Most branches are located near public transit, and many have parking available. If you are not sure which branch is closest to you, the website has a branch finder tool.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to pay to get a library card or use the library?

No. A library card is free, and you do not pay to borrow books, use computers, or attend programs. The library is funded by tax dollars and open to anyone who lives, works, or goes to school in Allegheny County.

What happens if I lose a book or return it late?

Late fees are typically 10 to 25 cents per day per item, depending on the type of material. If you lose a book, you pay the replacement cost plus a processing fee. You can renew items online or by phone to avoid late fees if you need more time.

Can I use my library card at other library systems?

Your Carnegie Library card works at all 19 Carnegie branches. Some other library systems in the region have reciprocal agreements, so your card may work there too — call ahead to check. The library can also request materials from other systems through interlibrary loan.

How do I get a library card if I do not have a permanent address?

You can use the address of a shelter, social service agency, or a trusted contact like a friend or family member. Bring documentation that shows you receive mail or services at that address, or ask the library staff what documents they can accept.

Are the e-books and streaming services really free with my card?

Yes. Services like Libby, Hoopla, Kanopy, and LinkedIn Learning are included with your library card at no extra charge. You do not need a separate subscription or payment method — just link your library card number to the app.