Hold It!

The Houston Public Library works for you 24/ 7, online at www.houstonlibrary.org. That's right, anytime, day or night, from home or work!

The Library provides many free services and programs for the convenience of the entire family. One of these services allows you to request to have your selected library materials placed On Hold and delivered to your local branch library or the Central Library for pickup. You can request to place a hold on books, videos, CDs, or DVDs for children, teens, and adults.

To place materials On Hold:

Go to the Library's homepage: www.houstonlibrary.org
On the right side of the page, select "Already have card? Log in". You will be prompted to enter your last name and your Library card number. Once you are in your account, click on the "Search Catalog" link.

Note: Logging in to your account before starting your search speeds the process when doing multiple holds. You may also start your search directly from the catalog and log in to your account after locating an item you wish to place on hold.

From the catalog page, find the materials you need by using the Keyword Search, Browse Search, or Name/Title Search.
From the list of results, click on the title that interests you.
You will see a red "HOLD REQUEST" link in the upper center of the screen. Click on that link and follow the instructions. Make sure the pick-up location selected is the one where you would like to pick up the item.
Once you have submitted your holds request, you will receive an online confirmation that the hold has been placed.
When your materials are available, you will receive a notice by e-mail or mail telling you that they are ready to be picked up.
Don't forget to log out of your Library Account when you are finished searching.

If you cannot visit the Houston Public Library Online, you can still request to place materials On Hold by calling 832-393-1313 during the Central Library's hours 9 a.m. until 6 p.m. Monday - Saturday or by visiting your branch library and asking a librarian for this service.