New to this community? New to libraries?

Below are definitions of general phrases the library commonly uses.

Tip

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Borrow or check out

To take home for a period of time

Due date

The day that the item must be returned to the library

Items or materials

Books, movies, music, video games, and other things that the library owns for you to use

Librarian

A trained professional who can help you learn how to use the library and how to find the information you need

Library card

A free membership card that you need to borrow materials from the library

Photo ID

An identification card that shows your name and a photograph of you. It can be a state I.D., a passport from any country or a consulate I.D. Bring what you have and we will work with you to get a library card.

Proof of Address

A bill or other piece of mail with your name that proves where you live

Receipt

A piece of paper that shows what items you have checked out and when they are due. This is also available in email form.

Renew

Asking to borrow materials for extra time. Phoenix Public Library will automatically renew your materials if doing so is possible for those items.

Return

Taking materials back to the library