start here with your library card
Apply online to receive a Library Card Number that you can use immediately to access our eCollection and public computers. This card number is good for 2 years. Visit any Memphis Public Library with your documentation requirements listed below to check out physical items. (Customers age 13 and up are invited to apply online.)
Visit our Start Here page for more details on obtaining a Library Card.
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search the catalog
We have over 1,000,000 titles in our catalog. Start searching for your next read today! You can place holds on titles and request to pick them up at any of our locations.
available soon titles
Find out how to get in line first for upcoming popular titles! Place holds on upcoming “Available Soon” titles. These titles may not have been released yet, but you can save your place in line by placing them on hold. You will be notified when the title has arrived at your pickup location.
memphis reads – staff picks
Library staff members contribute reviews, essays, and news items about titles in the Library’s collection and raise ideas, questions, and concerns for discussion.
reading lists
Not sure what to read next. Browse these lists of best-sellers, award winners, and titles just added to our catalog. You can check our catalog straight from these lists or browse similar titles.
book sizzle e-newsletter
Have suggestions sent directly to you each week. Book Sizzle is a weekly newsletter for anyone who loves to read. This includes links to new titles added to our collection as well as links to weekly best-sellers and more. Sign up here:
library book clubs
Find all the information you need about starting and sustaining your own book club as well as a directory of book clubs that meet at the Library.
books in a bag (adults and teens)
Books in a Bag is Memphis Public Library’s value-added service for our book club patrons! The program is a one stop shop for all of your book club reading and discussion needs. Each bag also includes: 10 copies of one title; Booklet with background materials; Author biography; Discussion questions; Advice on how to start and sustain a book club.
ecollection – ebooks, emusic, emagazines
Visit our eCollection for details on the various ways to access eBooks, eMusic, and eMagazines.
If you’re new, our Beginner’s Guide to the eCollection may be a good place to start.
Or access our services directly here:
- OverDrive eBooks and eAudiobooks (home of the Libby app)
- rbDigital Magazines
- Freegal Music
more resources
We have many other resources available directly from our website such as: