Frequently Asked Questions

Read through our frequently asked questions for information about library programs and services. If you need further assistance, contact us to connect. 

How do I become a Richmond Hill Public Library Member?

If you live, work, or go to school in York Region, you're eligible to sign up for a free library card and become a member. Visit any branch to register. Your membership can be used to borrow physical items like books, movies, and music, as well as access a large collection of digital content like ebooks, audiobooks, magazines, and more. Learn more.

How do I renew my membership?

Library cards expire every two years. Approximately 30 days before the expiry date, you'll receive notice to connect with our staff and bring I.D. with you to renew your membership at your nearest RHPL branch. 

If you are unable to visit a branch, you can connect with a staff member over the phone to verify your information such as your address, contact information and email. If there has been any change in your address, you will need to come into a branch with a proof of address.

How do I book a meeting room?

Richmond Hill Public Library has meeting room rentals for your business, non-profit, or community organization to connect. Each library branch locations offers meeting spaces with various seating capacities to suit your needs. Learn about fees, seating capacities, and how to book a room. 

How do I check or change my account?

For all of your account management options, make sure you are logged in to your account first. Once you see the blue button at the top right with your username, click on My Library Dashboard to see your full profile, including: holds, borrowed items, collections, lists, and more. If you would prefer to connect with someone directly, please call 905-884-9288.

How do I attend a program or activity?

To attend one of our exciting programs or activities, check out our program calendar and program guide for information about drop-in programs, registered programs, and special events. 

How do I sign out a computer or iPad?

Keeping our members connected online is important to us, which is why we offer many computers and iPads for use at each of our locations (for up to 2 hours per day). To book a computer, visit a location or reserve a time online. Note that each computer is automatically wiped and reset after each session, and fees incurred if iPads are lost or damaged. Learn more.

How do I suggest an item or program?

Looking for an item you can't find in our catalogue? We welcome suggestions for books, magazines, DVDs or other items for our collection of loanable items. To suggest an item, log in with your account to rhpl.bibliocommons.com and click on "My Library Dashboard". You'll see a clickable button that reads: "Submit a Suggestion." Fill out the form for our library staff to review. To propose a program, fill out the program proposal application form. Learn more.

How do I access WiFi at the Library?

We’re pleased to offer free WiFi at all RHPL branches. Simply ensure your device is powered on, turn on your WiFi, and connect to the “RHPL-Public” network. Then, launch your web browser and click the button to accept our turns and get connected. 

How do I find an item in the catalogue?

To find an item, type your search in the search box at the top right of the screen and press the search icon. The default search type is keyword as its the most commonly used. Based on the number of key words you type, it can help you find and narrow results of what you're looking for. You can also use the dropdown to change to a different search type like: author or title. Once you’ve started your search, you can also use the filters on the left of your screen to narrow down criteria like: availability and format. If you’re on a smaller screen, you may need to click to show the filters. Your results will load on the screen. Click on an item to view more information. 

How do I place a hold on an item?

Once you find an item to borrow, click on the title in the search results list. That will take you to a details page. If the library owns the title in multiple formats (like book vs eBook), select the format and click "Place a Hold". You can check out the item by visiting a library location where it’s currently available, or choose the pick-up location for the hold online. Once you've placed the hold, you’ll get a notification when your hold is ready.

How do I return or renew my books?

Our materials can be returned to any Richmond Hill Public Library branch. They can be returned inside the branch during staffed hours, or outside 24/7 through external drop boxes. Renewing Library books is easy! If you wish to renew an item, you can renew in person, or over the phone by calling 905-884-9288. You can also login online to ‘My Account’ to renew items. Note some restrictions apply, and that in the interest of fairness, items with holds cannot be renewed.

How do I replace a lost, stolen, or expired library card?

Life happens! If your library card has been taken or misplaced, please report the missing card to the Library so that items cannot be borrowed against your card without your consent. A replacement card can then be issued for $2.00, as long as identification and proof of address is provided.

Library cards expire every two years. At the time of renewal, you will need to verify your name, mailing address, email address (if any), and telephone number (if any) either in person or online. All outstanding monies owing will need to be paid prior to renewal, and students, children, and other customers living outside of York Region will need to renew in person.

How do I use the Interlibrary Loans service?

To request an interlibrary loan item, you must have an Richmond Hill Public Library card that is in good standing. You can submit a request in person at any branch information desk, or refer to our website for more information.

How do I donate books to the Library?

We appreciate you thinking of Richmond Hill Public Library; however, we don't accept book donations from community members for our collections. We recommend that you reach out to your nearest donation centre to coordinate dropping off these books.