Library Cards and Lending Guidelines
Getting a TCPL card is easy and FREE! You can register at the Library or online. When you complete the online application, you will receive a temporary card number you can use to place holds. The next time you visit the library, bring your photo ID and we will issue your library card.
All TCPL items can be returned to any of the 33 Finger Lakes Library System member libraries.
Please see TCPL's Card and Lending Guidelines for more information about borrowing.
Questions? Call our Circulation Services Department at (607) 275-1LIB (1542).
Interlibrary Loans
Titles not found in the Tompkins County Public Library catalog or in the Finger Lakes Library System may be available through out-of-system interlibrary loan (ILL).
For more information about ILLs visit the Finger Lakes Library System website.
Questions? Call the Adult Services reference desk at 607-272-4556.
Institutional Cards
TCPL offers institutional cards to allow organizations to check out books in bulk.
To be considered, please send a letter from the head of the institution, on official letterhead, stating the individual(s) authorized to use the card, and that the institution agrees to be responsible for all materials borrowed on the card, for fines incurred, as well as for lost or damaged materials and designating a contact person to oversee the use of the card.
A sample letter is available here:
Upcoming Events
GO ITHACA Open Hours
Join GO ITHACA for Open Hours at TCPL!
GO ITHACA is proud to help transform transportation in Tompkins County! Our program makes sustainable commuting accessible and affordable for everyone.
With our membership, you get:
Makerspace Open Hours
Drop-in open hours, no registration required. Come for a short tour, or stay and work on a project - we have lots of art supplies and ideas to get you making!
Story + Craft
Story + Craft is our weekly reading + creating event for children! Join us for a read-aloud, followed by art-making or a guided craft. Best for children 5 and up, but younger are welcome with an adult to assist.
Ages 8 to 108 Board Game Club
Are you between the ages of 8 and 108 and love playing board games? Then come join our board game club at TCPL! We meet in the Thaler/Howell Programming Room on Thursdays from 5 to 7pm.
Life Skills: Dollars and Decisions
An engaging 8-week course designed to provide the real-world money skills that kids actually need.