Frequently Asked Questions
If you have any additional questions, you may contact us at any time. We are also happy to answer any of your questions in-person at any of our seven neighborhood branch locations.
What do I need to get an Albany Public Library card?
In most cases, you must be at least 18 years of age, and provide an original local, state, or federally issued photo identification and street address verification (like a piece of business mail). Please see our Get a Card page for more information.
Where can I use my Albany Public Library card?
Regular Adult and Youth Cards are valid at all public libraries in Albany or Rensselaer counties (some restrictions may apply). Adult eCards and youth MyCards are valid only at Albany Public Library locations.
I owe fees. Can I still use my card?
If your fees are $10.00 or less, or if you are on a payment plan approved at an APL location, you can still check out materials and use the public computers at all of our branches.
If fees are more than $20.00 and you cannot pay in full, a payment plan may be arranged. Payment plans will be honored by other APL locations, but not other UHLS libraries. To set up a payment plan, please visit any of our neighborhood branch locations and speak with a circulation desk staff member.
Please note that other public libraries in Albany or Rensselaer county may have different fine thresholds and borrowing rules.
Can my family member or friend use my card to check-out items when I’m not present?
A library card may only be used by the cardholder it was issued to.
How old does my child have to be to apply for a library card?
Cards can be issued to children of all ages. See our Get a Card page for details!
Where can I return Albany Public Library items, and can I return items from another library at Albany Public Library?
You can return any item from a public library in Albany and Rensselaer County to any public library in Albany or Rensselaer County.
How many materials can I check out?
Regular cardholders can check out up to 100 items at a time with the following restrictions:
- Books: up to 100
- CDs: up to 10 at a time
- DVDs: up to 10 at a time
- Museum passes: up to 3 at a time
Do you accept book donations?
You can drop off gently used book donations to the Better World Books bins in the parking lots at our Delaware Branch and Pine Hills Branch. For more information, see Better World Books Donations.
Can I make suggestions of items I would like the library to purchase?
Sure! Stop by or call any of our neighborhood branch locations, or Ask a Librarian online.
How can I reset my PIN?
When we issued your card, we assigned you a 4-digit Personal Identification Number (PIN). You can change your PIN online, or you can stop by any of our neighborhood branch locations for assistance.
How do I volunteer at the library?
Interested in volunteering? Email volunteer@albanypubliclibrary.org and visit our Agency Page at unitedtovolunteeer.org for up-to-date volunteer opportunities.