Show All Answers

1. How do I get a Library Card?

Come by the library during our regular hours to register for a library card. Bring your photo ID. If your ID does NOT have your current address, please bring in something that shows your current address and YOUR name. For example, a bill, piece of mail, or lease agreement. If you are under 18, your legal guardian will need to come with you to sign the application. 

2. Is a Library Card free?

Yes! Library Cards are free for Shelby County residents or for individuals who work in Shelby County.

3. Can I use my Shelby County Library Card at Pelham Library?

Yes. The Pelham Library is part of the Shelby County Library Cooperative. If you have gotten a library card from one of the other libraries in the County, it is good here! 

4. Can I use my Hoover Library Card at Pelham Library?

Sorry, no. Hoover is part of the Jefferson County Library Cooperative, not the Shelby County Cooperative.

5. How long can I borrow Library items?

Items belonging to Pelham Library check out for the following timeframes:  

• Book, Magazines, & Audiobooks = 14 days  
• Movies, Music, & Video Games = 7 days  

Items (except new releases) will auto-renew unless someone else has requested it.

6. How do I log into my Library Account?

1. Visit pelhamlibraryal.gov and click on "Library Account" on the top of the screen.
2. Your barcode number is found on the back of you library card. Type in the full number without spaces.
3. Your password is your birth month and birth date. (Ex: January 1^st = 0101)

7. How do I request an item online to pick up at the Library?

1. Visit pelhamlibraryal.gov and log into your library account.
2. Click on the word "Search" and choose "Keyword" from the drop-down menu.
3. Press the search icon (magnifying glass) and scroll through the results. When you find the item(s) you want, click on "Place Request".

8. How do I activate my Reading History?

1. Visit pelhamlibraryal.gov and log into your library account.
2. Click on "Contact Information and Preferences" and scroll to the bottom.
3. Find and checkmark the box next to "Maintain Reading History".
4. Select "OK" from the pop-up box and then click "Submit Change Request".

9. How do I check out digital materials?

We have two services for digital books, movies, music, and other items: Hoopla and Overdrive.

We also offer free access to The Wall Street Journal and New York Times: Learn more about digital Newspapers

10. How do I access Overdrive?

Download the Libby App or go to Camellia.Overdrive. Follow the direction to create an account. You will need  your library card number and PIN (month and day of your birthday as a 4-digit number). If you do not have a library card, you may get an instant digital card.

11. How do I access Hoopla?

To access materials through Hoopla, download the Hoopla App or go to Hoopla.com. Follow the directions to create an account. You will need  your library card number and PIN (month and day of your birthday as a 4-digit number). If you do not have a library card, you may get a temporary account.

*You must be a Pelham resident for access to Hoopla.

12. What are some of your most helpful online resources?

• Genealogy with HeritageQuest Online
• Mango Language Learning
• Daily access to New York Time & Wall Street Journal
• Test prep, job-skill courses, and more with Learning Express Library
• Research databases by visiting Alabama Virtual Library
• Chilton automotive repair manuals
• Live, online tutoring (K-college) with Homework Alabama
• Step-by-step tutorials for Microsoft Excel, Word, computer basics, and more!

13. How do I find out about Library programs?

• Access the library's calendar of events
• Sign up for the library's newsletter 
• Follow Pelham Public Library on Facebook & Instagram.