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Borrowing Materials

Everything you need to know about checking out, renewing, and returning library materials at McAllen Public Library (MPL).


BORROWING GUIDE

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BOOKS

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DVDs/BLU-RAYs

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CDs

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VIDEO GAMES

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LIT KITS

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E-BOOKS

Limit: 25 / card
Loan Period: 3 Weeks
Late Fee: 10¢ / day

Limit: 6 / card
Loan Period: 1 Week
Late Fee: 50¢ / day

Limit: 4 / card
Loan Period: 2 Weeks
Late Fee: 10¢ / day

Limit: 2 / card
Loan Period: 2 Weeks
Late Fee: $1 / day

Limit: 1 / card
Loan Period: 6 Weeks
Details: Lit Kits

Limit: 6 / card
Loan Period: 2 Weeks
Late Fee: No Fine




GET A LIBRARY CARD

Library cards are free & available at any MPL location. To apply, bring:

✓ A government-issued photo ID
(U.S., Canada, or Mexico)

✓ Proof of your current U.S. mailing address
(such as a utility bill or mailed envelope dated within the last 30 days)

Parent or guardian verification is required for applicants ages 17 & younger. Photo will be taken at registration.

Apply Online Icon
 Click Here to Apply Online

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KEEP YOUR CARD ACTIVE

Library cards expire after one year and may be renewed with a photo ID & proof of current address. Name and address updates are free. Replacement cards are $1.00.

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BORROWING GUIDE

Your MPL card allows you to borrow a variety of materials, with limits based on item type. Patrons may have up to 25 items checked out at one time.

Item # Items  Loan Period
 Books 25 3 Weeks 
 CDs 4 2 Weeks
 eBooks* 6 2 Weeks
 DVDs & Blu-rays 6 1 Week
Video Games**  2 2 Weeks
Book Club (Lit) Kits  1 6 Weeks

*eBooks automatically expire from your device at end of loan period.
**Borrowers must be 18+ and have a library card in good standing.

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NEED SOMETHING WE DON'T OWN?

Interlibrary Loan
Borrow books and articles from participating libraries across Texas.

Details: Interlibrary Loan

Suggest a Purchase
Recommend books, movies, video games, and other materials for possible addition to the collection.

Details: Suggest A Purchase

CATALOG & ACCOUNT ACCESS

The online catalog makes it easy to search the collection, place holds, renew materials, and manage your library account.

To log in:
Enter your library card number (begins with "P") and your 4-digit PIN.

Forgot your PIN?
Visit any Circulation Desk or call (956) 681-3021.

Browse Icon
Search the Catalog

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PLACING HOLDS

Place up to 10 holds at no charge and choose your preferred pickup location. You'll be notified by email or text when your item is ready.

RENEWALS

Most items renew automatically. Items may not renew if they have reached the renewal limit, another customer has placed a hold, or your account has fees of $3 or more.

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RETURNS & FEES

Return materials to any MPL location or outdoor book drop.

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Material Fee

Books: $0.10 / day
CDs: $0.10 / day
eBooks: No Fee

DVDs & Blu-rays: $0.50 / day
Video Games: $1.00 / day

Accounts with fees over $3 may be restricted until the balance is reduced.

Payment Methods:
Credit or debit card accepted at any MPL location.

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

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How many items can I borrow?
Borrowing limits vary by material type. See the Borrowing Guide above.

Can I renew my items?
Yes. Most items renew automatically unless another customer is waiting for them, the renewal limit has been reached, or your account has fees over $3.

How will I know when a hold is ready?
You'll receive an email or text notification.

Can I return materials to any MPL location?
Yes. Materials may be returned at any MPL branch.

What happens if I lose an item?
Lost items are billed at replacement cost.

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