To log in to your online catalog account, use the library card number located on the back of your card and PIN. Please feel free to contact your local branch for support.
Your PIN is your birthdate in MMDDYY format. For example, July 4, 1976 would be 070476. If your birthdate is not on file, your PIN is 999999. You can update your PIN or create an EZ Login under "Account" after logging in. If you forget the new one, staff can reset it to your default PIN at any branch.
If your information changes (e.g., address, email), please notify staff promptly to keep your account current.
Loan periods:
- DVDs/Blu-Rays: One week; 11 renewals
- All other items: Three weeks; three renewals
- Streaming/downloadable media: Varies
Renewals: Items are automatically renewed unless another customer places a hold. No action is needed on your part.
Are there fines for overdue items?
There are no late fees. Fees are charged only for lost or damaged materials.
What if I lost or damaged an item?
Items are considered lost 21 days past the due date. You will be charged the replacement cost for items not returned or that are damaged. Please note that LCPL does not accept replacement copies of the item, and can only accept cash or credit cards for payment. Payment can be made at any branch or through your online account. If the item is returned, the fee will be waived.
Can I check out books if I forgot my library card?
Yes, if you provide a photo ID. If you know your library card number and PIN, you can use it without the physical card present.
Do I need a library card to use the Internet or WiFi in the library?
You can use either your library card or a temporary number from a staff member to access these services.
What should I do if I can't remember my library card number?
Visit any branch with a photo ID. After confirming your identity, staff can either give you your card number or issue a new card if needed.
How do I put an item on hold and have it sent to my branch?
If the item you want is checked out, you can get in line to be notified when it’s available. Simply click the orange Place Hold button under the title, log in with your card information and select your preferred pickup location. When your requested item becomes available for you to check out, you will be contacted by phone, text message or email according to your notification settings. Requested items are kept for you at the branch for seven days.
Can I pick up holds without my library card?
Yes, if you can provide a photo ID.
Can I place a hold if I do not have my library card?
Yes, staff will be happy to assist you with this service when you visit the library or via the phone.
Can a family member pick up my holds?
Family members can pick up your holds if they have your library card with them.
Can I check out my child’s holds?
Yes, parents have full access to their child's record if the child is younger than 18.
What options are available for receiving notifications about my account?
Email is the default notification method. If you would like to receive notifications by text message or phone, staff can assist in making that change. Notifications can include: when holds are ready for pickup, when items are coming due, when items are overdue, when items are lost, and checkout receipts, depending on which notification option is used.
How do I change my notification information?
To update your email and phone number, login to your account at catalog.library.loudoun.gov and click the "Account" link in the top right corner. Next, click the "Account Summary" tab, and select the "Contact Information" link.
How do I change my notification preferences?
Please contact staff at your local branch for assistance changing your notification preferences between phone, text message and email.
How can I ensure I get my emails?
Emails you receive for notifications will be sent from Loudoun County Public Library. The subject line will be “This is a message from the Loudoun County Public Library.” Please be sure that this user/address is listed as acceptable in any spam-blocking software that you or your email provider uses.
If an email notification bounces back to our system, it will automatically attempt to contact you via the phone number on your account.
How long will you keep items on the holds shelf?
The hold period is seven days from the time it changes to “Hold Shelf” status.
What should I do if I no longer need an item?
You can cancel holds by logging in to your account, clicking the "Account Activity" tab, and selecting the "Holds" link. You can select any holds in your queue to cancel.
What is the number for phone renewal?
703-771-LOAN (5626)
What services are available if I call the number?
- Renewal of items
- Hear a list of items checked out and their due dates
- Hear a list of items on hold
- Find out what fees you owe
When is it available?
7 days a week, 24 hours a day
When will it call me?
You will receive phone notifications if you have opted out of email notifications or if your email notifications bounced back from your mailbox.
What notifications will I receive via phone?
You will receive automated messages to inform you of any holds waiting for pickup, when items are lost, when items are coming due, and when items are overdue.
What if I lose my card?
Please let your branch know if you lose your card so we can prevent use of the card by someone else. Come into any branch to get a free replacement card. Please note that your card number will change and you may need to update your login if you access our digital resources.
When does my card expire?
- Resident and Reciprocal cards: every five years
- Work/Study/Own property in Loudoun: annually according to start date
- Educator cards: annually on Oct. 1
Loudoun County residents: Our system will attempt to automatically renew your account. If we are unable to verify your information, you will receive renewal instructions 30 days before your expiration date.
Reciprocal, Work/Study/Own and Educators: If you live in a reciprocal jurisdiction or qualify through employment, school enrollment, or property/business ownership in Loudoun, you must present proof of eligibility at any branch for renewal.
The Educator Card offers expanded access to library resources to educators living and/or working in Loudoun County. This card is intended for professional use only. It offers more privileges than a personal card and should not be used in place of a personal library card.
Educator cardholders enjoy these privileges:
- Borrow up to 50 items
- No fines for overdue items
- Four-week loan period
Who qualifies?
Public and private school K-12 teachers, homeschool teachers, childcare providers and preschool teachers who either work and/or live in Loudoun County. Please note, these qualifications are different than those for obtaining a personal LCPL card.
How do I get an Educator Card?
Visit your local branch. You must show proof of your status as an educator: letter on school letterhead or other proof of current employment as an educator, daycare provider certification, current homeschool status certification, or similar documentation. You must also show proof that you live and/or work in Loudoun County. LCPL staff will make the final decision about the validity of documentation provided.
Will the card expire?
Educator Cards are valid for one year only and expire on Oct. 1 each year. The card must be renewed in person, with the same documentation originally provided.
Are there any exclusions?
LCPL's 7-Day Hot Picks collection and Interlibrary Loan services are excluded.
What about my students?
Staff is happy to help you get personal library cards for your students. Please contact your local branch to make arrangements for a class visit to the library or for a librarian to visit your classroom.
Are there any fees associated with the Educator Card?
There are no fines for overdue items. However, cardholders will be responsible for the replacement costs of any lost or damaged items.
If you don't see an item you want in our collection, you can try the following services: