Other Services
Resource Sharing
Shared catalog and increased access to materials
Pacific Grove Public Library, Monterey Public Library, and Carmel Public Library are excited to introduce a shared catalog and courier service, expanding access to materials across all three locations.
With this service, your library card now gives you access to a broader collection of books and movies, and more—while continuing to enjoy the services of your local library.
What’s New
- Browse and borrow materials from all three libraries
- Place holds through a shared catalog
- Pick up and return items at your preferred location
How It Works
- Search the shared catalog
- Place your item on hold
- Select your pickup location
- You’ll be notified when your item arrives
Good to Know
- No new library card is required
- Each library remains independently operated
- Certain items must be picked up and returned to their home library (such as American Girl Dolls and Cooking Tools)
Three Libraries. One Shared Collection.
We invite you to explore, discover, and enjoy expanded access made possible through the support of the Cities of Pacific Grove, Monterey, and Carmel-by-the-Sea.
As always, Library Staff is happy to answer any questions you may have.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why have Monterey Public Library (MPL), Carmel Public Library (CPL), and Pacific Grove Public Library (PGPL) merged their catalogs?
MPL and PGPL have been sharing library resources since 1994. Carmel is joining their consortium to increase access to library collections for the residents of the three cities.
Where can I use my library card?
You can use your current library card at Pacific Grove Public Library, Monterey Public Library (including the Bookmobile and Hold Pickup Lockers), and Carmel Public Library (Harrison Memorial and Park Branch).
Where can I return my library items?
Most library items can be returned to any of our library locations (MPL, PGPL, CPL), including Monterey’s Bookmobile and Hold Pickup Lockers.
How do I log in to my library account?
You can continue to log in the same way you’ve done before, with your library card number and PIN.
- CPL: ci.carmel.ca.us/library
- MPL: www.montereylibrary.org/
- PGPL: www.pacificgrovelibrary.org/
How do I put items on hold? Where can I pick up my holds?
To put items on hold, log in to your library account. You’ll be able to search and select items from all three libraries, then choose where to pick them. You can pick up items at the library of your choice, and you’ll have 7 days to pick them up.
Will my MCFL or Salinas Public Library card also work for any of these libraries?
No, sorry.
How long can I check out items for?
Items can be checked out for 3 weeks, and renewed 3 times unless there is a hold on an item.
What about late fines?
None of the libraries have late fines for most items. However, if an item is lost or damaged, you will be charged to replace it. You can contact the library that the lost/damaged item belongs to for payment options.
Can I have more than one card?
Yes, you can! All three libraries have different online resources, so different cards will let you use different e-resources.
Should I get rid of my other cards?
No. You can keep all your library cards
Who should I talk to if I have a problem with my library card?
You can talk with any of the three libraries. Staff will be able to answer questions, renew your card, update your contact information, change your password, and/or direct you to the right staff to help resolve any issues with your account.
Are we going to have to wait longer for books? What about ebooks?
You should not see markedly longer wait times for books. Many community members already have multiple library cards, and all libraries plan to order additional copies of popular titles.
For ebooks – CPL, MPL and PGPL already have shared ebook collections through the Northern California Digital Library (on the Libby app). Because of this existing partnership, wait times should not be affected.
Do the other libraries have outreach services?
MPL has a Bookmobile that makes stops throughout the city of Monterey, as well as Hold Pickup Lockers at the Monterey Sports Center and Montecito Park that are accessible for pickup 24/7.