What Dallas Public Library offers and how to get your free guide
Dallas Public Library is a free public system run by the City of Dallas that lets you borrow books, movies, music, and digital materials from 29 locations across the city. You need a library card to check out physical items and to use most online services. A card is free and takes about five minutes to get — you can explore in person at any branch or online through the library's website.
The library system includes the main downtown location on Young Street, neighborhood branches in every part of Dallas, and a bookmobile that visits different neighborhoods on a schedule. Beyond borrowing, the library offers free computer access, meeting rooms you can reserve, job search help, children's programs, and digital collections you can access from home.
Key Takeaways
- A Dallas Public Library card is free and works at all 29 branches plus online services, and you can get one in person or explore online with a valid ID and proof of address.
- You can borrow books, DVDs, music CDs, and digital materials like e-books and audiobooks, with different loan periods depending on the item type.
- The library offers free computer and internet access, meeting rooms for community groups, and job search resources at most locations.
- Digital collections through the library website include e-books, audiobooks, streaming movies, and research databases that you can use from home with your library card number.
How to get a Dallas Public Library card
You can get a card by visiting any Dallas Public Library branch in person or by explore online. For an in-person card, bring a valid photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID) and proof of your current address, such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. A staff member will scan your documents, take your photo, and print your card on the spot.
If you explore online through the Dallas Public Library website, you will need to enter your name, address, phone number, and email. The library will mail a temporary card to your address, which you can use when ready to access digital materials. You can pick up your permanent card at any branch within 30 days, or the temporary card will expire.
If you do not have a permanent address, the library offers a non-resident card option. You can ask a staff member at any branch about the requirements for this type of card.
What you can borrow and loan periods
Dallas Public Library lets you borrow books, DVDs, Blu-rays, music CDs, audiobooks on CD, video games, and other physical materials. Books typically have a three-week loan period. DVDs and Blu-rays can be checked out for one week. Music CDs and audiobooks on CD have a three-week period. Video games have a one-week loan period.
You can renew most items online through your library account or by calling your branch, as long as no one else has placed a hold on them. If you return an item late, the library charges overdue fines — the amount depends on the item type. You can check your account online to see what you have checked out, when items are due, and any fines you owe.
The library also has a holds system: if an item is checked out, you can place a hold and the library will notify you when it becomes available. Holds are free and typically stay on the shelf for three days after the library contacts you.
Digital materials and online access
With your library card number, you can access digital collections from home through the Dallas Public Library website. These include e-books through OverDrive and Libby, audiobooks, streaming movies through services like Kanopy, and research databases. You log in with your library card number and PIN to borrow digital items, which read to your phone, tablet, or computer.
E-books and audiobooks typically have a 21-day loan period and do not have overdue fines — they return automatically. Some popular titles have wait lists, just like physical books. The library also offers access to educational databases, job search tools, and language learning software, all included with your card.
Computer access and internet at library branches
All Dallas Public Library branches offer free public computers and Wi-Fi. You can use a computer for up to two hours per day without a library card, though you may need to sign up at the front desk. With a library card, you get extended access and can reserve a computer in advance at some locations.
The library provides printing, scanning, and copying services for a small fee. Most branches have computers with Microsoft Office and internet browsers. If you need help using the computers or have questions about internet access, staff at the branch can information you.
Meeting rooms and community spaces
Many Dallas Public Library branches have meeting rooms available to reserve for free or at a low cost. These rooms are open to community groups, nonprofits, and individuals. You typically need a library card to reserve a room, and you book through the library's website or by calling your branch. Room sizes and availability vary by location, so check the specific branch you want to use.
The library also hosts free programs and events throughout the year, including children's story times, teen programs, adult classes, and community discussions. You can find a calendar of events on the library website or ask at your nearest branch.
Job search resources and programs
Dallas Public Library offers free job search help at most branches. This includes access to job databases, resume writing tools, and computers where you can search for positions and submit applications. Some branches have staff who can help you with resume review or job search strategies during specific hours — call ahead to ask what your branch offers.
The library also hosts job fairs and career workshops throughout the year. These are free and open to anyone with or without a library card. Check the library website or call your branch for dates and topics.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do I do if I lose my library card?
Visit any branch with your ID and proof of address, and staff will issue a replacement card. There is usually a small replacement fee, though some branches waive it. You can also call your branch to report a lost card and temporarily block it from use.
Can I use my Dallas library card at other library systems?
Dallas Public Library has reciprocal agreements with some other Texas library systems, but not all. Call your branch or check the website to see if you can use your card at libraries in nearby cities or counties.
How do I access digital materials if I do not have a computer at home?
You can use the free computers at any library branch to access e-books, audiobooks, and streaming services. Staff can show you how to read items to your phone if you have one, so you can take them home and read or listen offline.
Are there fines if I return items late?
Yes, Dallas Public Library charges overdue fines for late returns. The amount varies by item type — books typically cost a few cents per day. You can pay fines online, by phone, or in person at any branch. Digital items do not have overdue fines and return automatically.
Do I need a library card to use the Wi-Fi at a branch?
No, Wi-Fi is free for anyone. You can connect without a library card, though you may need to accept the library's terms of use on your first connection.