Do I need proof of vaccination to enter a branch or attend an event?
No, proof of vaccination is not required to enter public libraries in Ontario.
How do I book a computer or print a document?
Public computers reserved online can be used for one hour only. Book a computer online up to three days in advance or call InfoService at 613-580-2940.
Outdoor WiFi is available at many branches.
Clients can use mobile printing to upload a variety of file types to the cloud and release them at any branch within OPL. A fee of 10 cents per page will be added to the customer’s account.
How can I get real-time help without going into a branch?
OPL’s Library 1:1 service provides one-on-one 30-minute consultations on several key topics such as readers advisory (recommendations) or help with eBooks. Contact InfoService at 613-580-2940 or book a Library 1:1 session on our website.
Where can I use a public computer?
Book a computer online up to three days in advance or call InfoService at 613-580-2940. Chromebook lending will continue, by request, for loans of up to three hours. Chromebooks are no longer reservable online. Please request one from a Library employee or contact Infoservice. Outdoor WiFi is available.
Branch employees can provide assistance at a safe distance, and may offer the use of the online print request form as an alternative printing method, if needed. Customers who use the online form will have a fee of 10 cents per page added to their account, which is payable in-branch by credit or debit.
Customers are encouraged to add funds, in advance of printing and photocopying, to the “Print copy funds” tab in their account, through the Library's online payment system (SmartPay).
Are appointments required to use a public computer?
No. Public computers can be reserved online. Book a computer online up to three days in advance or call InfoService at 613-580-2940.
Chromebook lending will continue, by request, for loans of up to three hours. Chromebooks are no longer reservable online. Please request one from a Library employee or contact Infoservice. Outdoor WiFi is available.
How do I book a computer?
Book a computer online up to three days in advance or call InfoService at 613-580-2940. Bookings are limited to one hour a day.
Can I access WiFi at branches?
Yes, WiFi is available at all branches.
Where can I return my library items?
Return items borrowed from the Library anytime via book drops. The Bookmobile is also accepting returns.
Will I be charged late fees if I don’t return my items right away?
OPL eliminated late fees on January 1, 2021. For more information, please visit our loan period and fees page.
Can I donate items?
Donations of used books will be accepted by the Friends of the Ottawa Public Library Association (FOPLA) at all branches. Donated books should be newer than 10 years old, be free from water damage and mold, and should not be missing pages or otherwise damaged.
Do I need an appointment to pick up my holds?
You do not need an appointment to pick up your holds at any open branch. You can pick up your holds during hours of operation.
How long will I have to pick up my holds?
Holds will be kept for 7 days. Holds at the Metcalfe Village branch will be kept on the shelves for 28 days. You need to pick up your holds before the Pick up by date on your holds notification email.
Do I have to pay a fee if I don’t pick up my holds?
A $1 fee will be charged for items on hold that are not picked up before their expiry date. You can manage, pause, or cancel holds in your online account.
Can I pick up holds for other people, like my children?
Yes! Please make sure to bring the library cards or card numbers for any accounts you are picking up holds for.
How long can I keep my checked out items?
The loan period for regular Library items is 21 days. Late fees were eliminated on January 1, 2021.
Loan periods for EXPRESS items are 3 days or 7 days, depending on the item.
Can I place new holds on library material?
Customers can reserve items, with a limit of 200 total holds (physical items) per customer.