Library Accounts

Getting and Using a Library Card

How to get a library card For Evanston residents, other taxpayers, and Evanston companies.

Residents of the Skokie/Evanston area - zip code 60203 - should apply for a library card at the Skokie Public Library. This card can then be used at the Evanston Public Library.

Evanston Public Library Loan Policies

Loan periods for materials, Library fees and fines, and circulation restrictions.

How to Renew Materials

Library materials can be renewed twice providing there is no request for the material being renewed. The exception to this is "Most Wanted" books, which are non-renewable. If a patron’s fines are $10 or more, renewal will not be permitted until the fine is brought down under $10.

Library Account Information

You can access your Library account information with your library card number and password. The default password is patron . Go to the Library Catalog and type in your card number and password. 

Once logged in, click on My EPL near the top of the screen to view items currently checked out, renew items, view or place reserves, and see your fines.  Fines can be paid online. Remember to click on the Logout button when you are finished.

Placing Reserves (Holds)

Patrons with a valid library card may place holds on most circulating library materials, except "Most Wanted" books. 

•  Go to the EPL catalog and log in to your account by typing your library card number/username and your password (patron, unless you have changed it.) 
• After logging in, search for your title. Find the one you want and click on the title to see the details.
• To place a hold on this title click on the Place Hold button in the left column. Remember to click on the Logout button when you are finished.
• You may select the Main Library, North Branch, or Chicago Ave./Main St. as a pick-up location.
• You can also reserve items by calling (847) 448-8621 or by going to the Reader’s Services desk. When the book is available for pick-up, you will be notified by phone or email.  
• You can opt for email notifications by using the online Email Notices Form.

Interlibrary Loan

Interlibrary loan service allows libraries to borrow or obtain copies of library materials not found in the collections of our consortium libraries, and to lend or provide copies of library materials requested by other libraries. Call Readers' Services at  (847) 448-8620 for books, audio-visual materials, or newspaper microfilm reels. Call Reference at (847) 448-8630 for magazine article photocopies and census microfilms.