How Do I
Get a Library Card
Full Service Card
Any resident of the City of Flint or the State of Michigan may apply for a Flint Public Library card. A current Driver’s License or State of Michigan Identification card must be shown. People under the age of 18, who do not have their own Michigan Driver’s License or Identification Card, must have a parent or legal guardian present to get a card at the time that they apply. Applications are accepted at the Checkout Desk until 30 minutes before closing time. Please visit the lobby to fill out an application or download and print ahead of your visit.
E-Card
Live in a Flint zip code? Click here to get an E-card. Live outside Flint, no current ID, or you’ve not yet updated your address? No problem! Visit the library and we can issue you a library card or renew your regular card as an E-Card temporarily until you bring in your ID. Your E-Card gives you access to library computers and all of our electronic resources available anywhere any time, including downloadable books, audiobooks and music. The only thing you cannot do with an E-Card is check out physical materials. This brochure can provide more information. If you want to, you can bring a valid ID to the Checkout Desk and we can convert your E-Card to a full service library card at any time.
Use a Computer
You can use one of our 60 computers up to 3 hours a day with your library card barcode and PIN. Waiting lists are rare, but you can reserve a computer up to a week ahead if you need one on a specific day and time. Guests from out of state who are not eligible for a library card may sign up for an E-card to use the computer and print from it.
Access Wi-Fi
The network is FPL-Patron with no password required. Choose this on your computer or device to access Wi-Fi within the Library building. Refresh your browser and accept the Library’s Internet Policy when prompted. You can also print from your wireless device. Click this link for step by step Wi-Fi instructions.
Print, Copy and Fax
Add money to your library card account, or purchase a print card, to use the computer printers and photocopiers. Money can be added at the Add Value machines or at the checkout desk. You can choose either black and white printing or color printing for an extra charge. Check with staff for current pricing.
Our fax is located in the Reference Department. It accepts credit or debit cards only, not library or print cards. Only outgoing faxing is available. Faxes are $1.75 for the first page and $1.00 for each additional page.
Reserve a Room
Flint Public Library has several rooms available for use by public groups with advanced reservations. There is one large meeting room (capacity 180), one smaller room (capacity 60), and a conference room (capacity 10). See our Room Reservations page for details.
Have an Exam Proctored
Exam proctoring is available only to Flint Public Library cardholders. Michigan residents are able to obtain a Flint Public Library card with a valid Michigan Driver’s License or Michigan Identification Card. Use this web form to submit a proctoring request. We will confirm your appointment by email or phone.
Download
Click this link to download complete instructions, including a list of devices that can be used to download materials, and instructions for how to use them. If you have any questions, please ask a librarian for assistance.
Place Holds or Renew
Log into the My Account section of our catalog with your barcode and PIN to place holds, check due dates of your items, and renew. You can also update your Contact Information and Preferences, which includes your address, telephone number(s), email address(es), and telephone number for text notices.
Get Email Notices
Log into the My Account section of our catalog with your barcode and PIN to enter or update your Contact Information and Preferences. You can set your preferences to receive e-mail notices and also give us your mobile phone number and carrier (e.g., Verizon) to get text messages. Next time you’re in the library, stop at the checkout desk to verify that your account is set to receive e-mail notices, text notices, or both.
Pay Fines
Please stop by the Library during open hours and visit the Checkout Desk. Cash and checks are accepted.
Ask a Librarian
We have several options for you!
- You may ask any of us for help any time while you are in the Library – we are happy to help!
- Email us at askus@fpl.info
- Use the Contact Us form on this web site to send an email message.
