I applied for a library card online. What do I need to do to use my card?

As soon as you get your library card number, you can access eBooks/eAudiobooks, digital magazines, article databases and most online resources, and place holds on items in the library catalog.

Visit the library within 60 days with proof of identification and local address to verify your account. You will not be allowed to pick up holds or use self-check at the Library, or use Lynda.com online, until your account has been verified.

Does the Library Have an App?

Our app for iOS and Android phones and tablets features multiple account management, booklists, catalog search, Library information, news and events.

Where do I see my eBook checkouts?

Your OverDrive checkouts appear in your list of checked out items in your Library account, but your RBdigital and Ebsco checkouts appear only within those accounts or apps.

What is my username?

Your username is set by default and will appear on hold slips and can also be used to log into your Library account and some eResources in place of your card number.  You can view and change your username from the My Preferences section of your online account. Usernames must be at least 4 characters and may contain numbers, letters, and special characters.

Why does my account have a Password?

A password provides an additional level of security for your private account information.

What if I forgot my Password?

You can reset your Password.

What kind of account notifications do I receive by email? 

• Checkout "Date Due" receipt - Sent for each checked out item
• Hold Ready for Pickup - Sent when your hold is ready for pickup
• Auto-Renewal status - Sent to notify you of whether your items have been auto-renewed, and the reason why not if auto-renewal is unsuccessful
• Due Date Reminder "Courtesy Notice" - Sent 3 days prior to item due date
• Overdue Notices - Sent 8 and 15 days after due date. Please disregard Overdue Notices received during 72 hour book return quarantine period.

What kind of account notifications can I receive by SMS (text)? 

• Hold Ready for Pickup - Sent when your hold is ready for pickup
• Due Date Reminder "Courtesy Notice" - Sent 3 days prior to item due date
• Overdue Notices - Sent 8 and 15 days after due date. Please disregard Overdue Notices received during 72 hour book return quarantine period.

What if I lose my library card, and don't know my library card number?

You can find you library card number in three places:

• • Your online account - Log into your account with your username and password
  • The Library App -  Download the Library App and add your account using your username and password. The App provides a digital library card that can be used to check items out
  • Account notification emails - If you do not have a username, search your email for emails from "notices@library-arlingtonva.us." These emails will include your card number.

You can also check items out using a photo ID with proof of local address. Lost cards and changes of address must be reported immediately. A replacement card costs $2.

Does my library card expire?

I have moved from the area. How do I delete my account?

Please submit a request to delete your account.

For what other reasons could a card be blocked?

A library account is blocked when it has Lost library materials and/or an account balance of $15.00 or more.  Blocked accounts cannot borrow, renew, or place holds on materials or access premium sites from home.

What can I do if I cannot access or have questions about my account?

Contact Library staff by phone, web chat or text.