The Community Hub refers to the partner space on the second floor of the Main Library that hosts local community organizations and their adjoining meeting areas. Organizations pay discounted rent for their units and host mission-aligned programs and services.
-
General Questions
Tacoma Tool Library and Write253 were identified as “anchor” tenants as part of the library redesign. The other partners were selected through a public procurement process. See our Main Library Second Floor Partner License Policy for more information about who is eligible to become a partner.
Yes. Tacoma Public Library provides units at a discounted rate based on the square footage of the space.
The Community Hub operates its own hours, separate from those of Tacoma Public Library. Partner organizations manage their own schedule of programs and open hours.
The Community Hub is not available to rent.
No. All partners offer some free programming and services as part of their partnership with the library. In addition to their free programs, partners also can offer fee-based programs independent of the library. Fees are set by the individual organizations.
For private events, reach out directly to the partner/s you wish to work with.
The library will announce a public process when looking to fill vacancies. Information will be posted to the library’s website, online accounts, and through the City of Tacoma’s Procurement and Payables Division.
-
Book Clubs
Book Club Kits are sets of multiple copies of a title that can be checked out and used for your own book group or group of friends. Kits check out for 56 days. They may not be renewed.
Here's the list of current book club kits.
To reserve a kit, please fill out this form online or contact Telephone Reference at (253) 280-2800. You may also speak to reference staff at any location who will assist you in making a reservation.
We will do our best to reserve the book kits for the dates requested. You will be contacted by email or by phone, within 2 business days to confirm the request date. If a book kit is not available for the requested dates, you can request an alternate date.
Book club kits can be picked up at any branch location. They can be returned to any location as well.
-
Books by Mail
Books by Mail (BBM) is a TPL program dedicated to providing service to homebound patrons who are unable to come to the library to choose materials for themselves.
Homebound individuals living within the City of Tacoma.
Contact Books by Mail Coordinator, Monique Piegdon at 253-280-2962 to learn more.
-
Computers & WiFi
-
Damaged Items
These are the most common types of materials damage we see:
- Liquid damage resulting in wavy pages or obstruction of text or discoloration
- Stained beyond use
- Torn, chewed, and/or missing pages
- Stickiness
- Missing pieces
- Strong odor
- Scratched media.
There are varying levels of quality from Amazon and other booksellers as well as other differing publishing years or editions that might not be a 1:1 to replacement for the damaged item. Items purchased by the library arrive partially processed and adding books outside that stream results in increased staff time and cost.
Yes, you can request to keep a damaged item you purchased as long as the damage wasn’t so severe staff needed to discard it for safety. Please work with Branch staff when you pay for the item.
Some types of damage can lead to parasites and/or mold in the collection. Other types of damage may not be handleable by staff and therefore would not be presentable to other patrons.
-
Donate
The library accepts bequests made through your will or trust. You can make a general donation, or specify which programs and collections you wish your money to support. For more information, please contact the Finance Office at (253) 280-2870.
Yes, the library accepts donations of materials including books, movies, and music in good condition.
- Donations of no more than 2 clean boxes per household per week can be accepted at any open branch.
- Please do not put donations in outside book returns or leave donations outside the building when we are closed.
- Tax deduction slips are available by request, but we cannot assign a value to your items
If you are interested in donating to the Northwest Room's Local History and Genealogy collection, please review their donation information.
All donations are subject to approval. We reserve the right to decline a donation that is not consistent with the policies, programs, and interests of the library.
We accept:
- New or gently used hardcover and paperback books
- Audiovisual materials (Blu-ray, DVD, CD, audiobooks) in good condition
- Magazines no older than 3 years old
We are unable to accept:
- Moldy or damaged items, including books with missing covers or pages, broken spines, or containing handwriting or highlighting
- Textbooks, encyclopedias, law, statute and regulation books
- Magazines more than 3 years old
- Homemade DVDs or CDs or VHS
- Video games
- LP’s and cassette tapes
- Advanced Reader Copies
- Reader’s Digest condensed books
- Nonfiction books more than 10 years old
- Medical, computer, and travel guides more than 3 years old
- Discarded materials from schools or other library systems
Donations are typically sold in the branch library book sales or via library partners online. The proceeds support the library's Summer Reading Club.
Congratulations on the publication of your book and thank you for your interest in adding your work to Tacoma Public Library’s collection. Tacoma Public Library has developed a Local Author Collection and will happily make available books that meet the following criteria:
- The author resides in Tacoma or Pierce County, or the setting or subject is the city of
Tacoma or Pierce County. - One copy of the book is donated to the library for inclusion in the Local Author
Circulating Collection. Additional copies may be purchased to meet patron demand
per the standard holds to copies ratio. - The author must submit a Bibliographic Information for Local Author Collection form.
- The format of the book is suitable for library circulation
The Collection Development Department will review submitted material to ensure it is appropriate for the Local Author Collection. Books approved for the Local Author Collection will be identified with a local author label and will be located at the Main Branch. Books in the Local Author Collection will be subject to our standard deselection guidelines.
Please bring a donated copy of your work and a completed Bibliographic Information for Local Author Collection form to any Tacoma Public Library. You can expect most works to appear in the catalog within six weeks of submission date. If you have any questions, please email info@tacomalibrary.org.
Tacoma Public Library welcomes monetary donations to support its mission and programs. The Tacoma Public Library Foundation directly supports the Tacoma Public Library through advocacy and fundraising. Make an online donation to the Tacoma Public Library Foundation through their website.
Additionally, you can donate directly with cash or card to Tacoma Public Library at the circulation desk of any library location. Another option is to mail a check to the Tacoma Public Library Finance Office:
Tacoma Public Library
c/o Finance Office
1102 Tacoma Ave. S
Tacoma, WA 98402
All financial contributions, whether they are directly to Tacoma Public Library or to the Tacoma Public Library Foundation, are tax-deductible. Contact the Finance Office with questions about donations by calling 253.280.2870.
-
eBooks, Audiobooks, and More
There are two main ways to find eBooks:
- For the most complete listing of our eBook collections, go to Tacoma Library's OverDrive (Libby) website. You can also browse the Tacoma Public Library collection using those services' Apps.
- eBooks can also be found in the library catalog by searching the term "ebooks" in the library catalog. (Please note that at this time the catalog does not list every eBook in our collection, nor does it offer all of the features available through the eBook website.)
We offer downloadable audiobooks from Overdrive. There are two main ways to find them:
- For the most complete listing go to the Overdrive website or Libby app directly.
- A selection of downloadable audiobooks can also be found by searching the term "downloadable audiobooks" in our library catalog.
There are several ways to get help with eBooks and downloadable audiobooks:
- The OverDrive Help page is a great place to start for OverDrive questions. They offer an extensive overview of common problems and solutions.
- Send an email to Tacoma Library's eResources Support Team using eResources@tacomalibrary.org.
- Visit your local branch and ask for help from one of our friendly staff members.
There are two main ways to find streaming movies:
- For the most complete listing of our streaming movie collections, go to Tacoma Library's Kanopy website directly. You can also browse the Tacoma Public Library collection using those services' Apps.
- A selection of the streaming movie collection can also be found in the library catalog by searching the library catalog for "streaming movies." (Please note that at this time the catalog does not list every streaming movie in our collection.)
There are never any overdue fines associated with our ebook and downloadable audiobook collections. eBooks and downloadable audiobooks automatically expire at the end of the lending period.
-
Employment
Tacoma Public Library uses the City of Tacoma's Human Resources Department for recruitment and processing applications for open positions. Their main office is located at:
City of Tacoma
Human Resources Department
747 Market St., Room 1336
Tacoma, WA 98402Library employment opportunities are listed at the City of Tacoma's website on the Employment Information page. You may also call the City of Tacoma's Recorded Job Line at (253) 591-5795 for information about current job opportunities at the Library and at the City.
Job postings listed on the City of Tacoma’s website require the completion of an online application. Click on the job title you are interested in then click on the "Apply" link. There are instructions for establishing an account so that you can build an application by clicking on the "Build Job Application" link. Your application can be saved and used to apply for more than one job opening.
Employment information, current employment listings, and employment applications are available at any library location by accessing the Job Opportunities page of the City of Tacoma’s website.
If you wish to receive email notification when a library job announcement is posted for applications, you will need to complete a job interest card, which is available on the Employment Information page of the City of Tacoma’s website.
-
Free Museum & Other Passes
Tacoma Public Library offers passes for free admission to five local museums, two regional gardens, and the Check Out Washington Discover Pass.
Passes can be borrowed with your library card at any of our eight branch locations.
Check the catalog to see whether passes are currently available or contact your local library branch.
Passes are available on a first come, first serve basis, and cannot be placed on hold.
Passes are available on a first come, first serve basis, and cannot be placed on hold.
Passes may be checked out for seven days and cannot be renewed.
Yes, you can check out more than one kind of pass but you can’t check out two of the same kind on the same library card.
Museum passes do NOT cover special shows. Please contact the museums directly for further information. Currently, library passes allow for:
Check Out Washington Discover Pass - Free entrance to state parks and other state owned land for a week.
Harbor History Museum - Free regular admission for up to two (2) adults and four (4) children/students ages 5-17.
Lakewold Gardens - Free admission for up to two adults and three students ages 13-18. Children ages 12 and under are always admitted free.
Museum of Glass - Free admission for up to two adults and four children under the age of 18. Children ages 5 and under are always admitted free.
LeMay - America’s Car Museum - Free admission for up to 2 adults and 4 children under the age of 18 (children age four and under are always free).Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden - Free admission for up to two adults. Children ages 12 and under are always admitted free.
Tacoma Art Museum - Free regular admission for up to four people (does not include children 6 and under who are always admitted free).
Washington State History Museum - Free admission for up to two adults and two children under age 18.
-
Government Documents
Yes, many federal documents are available online. If a document is in the library catalog, there may be a link to view the document online. You may also find federal documents online through the Catalog of Government Publications. -
Handforth Gallery
Please complete the Handforth Gallery Artwork Consideration Request Form. You will need to provide your name, contact info, an artist statement, and 7-10 digital images of your artwork.
You will be notified within 6 - 8 weeks of submitting a request to exhibit.
Shows are scheduled 1 – 2 years in advance. The Handforth Gallery hosts four shows a year.
The artist is responsible for installation.
Yes. All sales are facilitated by the artist.
No. Artists are encouraged to insure their artwork.
Find our latest and upcoming exhibitions here.
-
Hours and Locations
Visit our Locations page to see the hours for each of our locations.
Tacoma Public Libraries are closed on the following holidays each year:
- New Year’s Day
- Martin Luther King’s Birthday
- Presidents’ Day
- Memorial Day
- Junteenth
- Independence Day
- Labor Day
- Veterans Day
- Thanksgiving
- Christmas Eve
- Christmas Day
All locations close at 6:00 pm on Wednesday before Thanksgiving and December 31 of each year.
Check individual location pages for current dates specific to your local library. Holiday and closure information is posted on individual location pages.
Due to the Library's regular service days (Tuesday-Saturday) and certain contractual commitments, libraries are closed either the day following or the day preceding an observed holiday when that holiday falls on a day when the libraries are regularly not open. The library has neither sufficient staffing, nor the budget dollars to pay overtime, that would be required to keep these libraries open on these days. Tacoma Public Library staff thank you for your understanding and patience and we apologize for any inconvenience.
-
Interlibrary Loan (ILL)
Our Interlibrary Loan (ILL) service provides access to materials that are not in our collection by requesting them from other library systems.
Make an Interlibrary Loan request using our online form. If you are unable to use the online form, the staff at any of our branches can get a paper version for you to fill out.
Patrons who have a valid Tacoma or Paid card with fines below $100 may request items through Interlibrary Loan. Neighbor cards for patrons living in another library’s service area must request ILL items through their home library system.
Interlibrary Loan is a free service from Tacoma Public Library. Please note patrons will be responsible for any costs charged by the lending library, such as borrowing and damaged/lost fees.
You can request up to 3 items per month within the following item types:
- Books (older than 12 months)
- Audiobook CD (older than 12 months)
- Music CD (older than 12 months)
- Sheet Music
- Articles
We do not process any requests for titles published within the last 12 months, DVDs, eBooks, eAudiobooks, CD-ROMs, or Software.
You may request the same title only once per calendar year.
Patrons will be notified by email or telephone when their items are available.
Materials may be picked up from and returned to any Tacoma Public Library location.
Please return ILL items via the inside book drops at one of our branches or give them to a staff member at the checkout desk.
If you have any questions regarding your ILL requests or materials, email us at ill@tacomalibrary.org.
We can request a renewal with the loaning library, but renewals are not guaranteed. If you would like to renew, please email ill@tacomalibrary.org or call 253.280.2859.
-
Library Cards
-
Lucky Day Collection
- All branches have Lucky Day collections.
- The books in the Lucky Day Collection are not listed in the catalog. Please stop by your library branch to discover what’s available.
- Lucky Day books can be checked out for 21 days.
- Renewals are not allowed on Lucky Day books. We want as many readers as possible to enjoy the collection.
- You can check out two Lucky Day books at a time, and they count as part of the 100-item limit.
- No, Holds are not allowed on Lucky Day copies.
- The copies in Lucky Day Collection are not listed in the catalog. Please stop by your Lucky Day library branch to discover what’s available.
-
Maker Labs
The xTool laser engraver, 3D printers, sewing machine, embroidery machine, serger, Digital Media Lab and Cricut can be reserved once per week. During open lab, all equipment (except the 3D printer) is first-come, first-served, even if a person has already had a reservation.
People can use the 3D printer one time a week for a print that is 2 hours or less.
Open lab is a time designed for anyone to come in and use the Maker Labs. Equipment and materials are on a first come, first served basis. Staff will be available to provide support.
Independent study is a time designed for people who are already familiar with the equipment to come in and use the Maker Labs. Make a reservation here. People may also come in a use equipment if it is not reserved, but we offer timeslots on a first come, first served basis. Patrons coming in to independent study must be 18 or older, or must be accompanied by an adult. Staff will not be available to provide assistance during independent study.
The Maker Labs include equipment and software for:
- Art
- Crafting
- Audio recording
- Music production
- Podcasting
- Robotics
- Coding
- Digitization
No, we’re not offering volunteer opportunities in the Maker Labs at this time.
The Maker Labs are for everyone. Some tools have age limits due to the schedule. Be sure to read event descriptions or ask staff members for information when you plan your visit.
-
Mobile Hotspot
The TPL hotspots provide a Wi-Fi Internet connection using the T-Mobile 5G and LTE networks. Devices like laptops and tablets can be connected to access Internet resources.
Just charge them, turn them on, and access Wi-Fi.
They are free with a Tacoma Public Library card. Check with your local Tacoma Public Library to get a library card.
There is a hotspot and charging cord in each box.
Up to 10 devices can be connected to a TPL hotspot.
You can check out a hotspot for three weeks. If they do not have a hold on them, they will automatically renew three times, just like our books.
Please do not return in book drops, but go to the desk of any library during open hours and return to a staff member.
Overdue hotspots will be deactivated. There is a $5 fee for lost charging cables if only the charger is lost or broken. There is a $100 for a lost hotspot if the hotspot itself is damaged or lost.
Tacoma Public Library has multiple hotspot models. Tacoma Public Library from time to time will purchase new models to replace old ones, and to ensure we provide the best service possible to our patrons.
Patrons looking for affordable Wi-Fi options in Tacoma should visit the City of Tacoma’s page on Internet Services and Digital Equity: https://www.cityoftacoma.org/government/city_departments/information_technology/digital_equity/residential_internet_services_and_devices
- TPL hotspots can be checked out by anyone with a Tacoma Card, a Paid Card, or a Community Card. Holds can be placed on hotspots to be picked up at any Tacoma Library location. TPL hotspots can be returned to any Tacoma Public Library location.
- TPL’s hotspots “live” at the Fern Hill, Moore, and Swasey branches. These branches were selected based on the Tacoma Equity Index’s opportunity map, to ensure hotspots are available where patrons need them the most, and to align with our strategic priority of Equity and Access. You can read more about our strategic plan here: https://www.tacomalibrary.org/strategic-plan/
-
Naloxone Vending Machine
Through a partnership with Tacoma Needle Exchange and the Dave Purchase Project, Tacoma Public Library will be placing a Naloxone (NARCAN) vending machine in the lobby of the Moore Library. The vending machine is intended to provide free access to patrons and community members who have friends, family, or are themselves at risk of an opioid overdose. We anticipate being able to provide this service through March 2023, and possibly longer if additional funding is secured.
Additionally, the Tacoma Needle Exchange will stock naloxone in TPL branches and train staff on how to administer it in case of an overdose on TPL premises. Finally, the Tacoma Needle Exchange will provide no-cost peer counseling services to patrons for 2-4 hours per month at up the Moore and South Tacoma libraries for the next year.
NARCAN is a brand name for the drug naloxone. Naloxone is an opioid reversal drug. It is administered as a nasal spray used to neutralize the effects of opioids, primarily on individuals experiencing an overdose. Naloxone has no effect on individuals not using opioids and has no potential for abuse or harm to anyone of any age.
Naloxone has no effect on someone who does not have opioids in their system, and it is not a treatment for opioid use disorder. It is used to reverse an overdose. Naloxone cannot be used recreationally, as it has no effect on someone who does not have opioids in their system. It attaches to opioid receptors in the brain and reverses and blocks the effects of other opioids.
There are no age restrictions on the use of naloxone; it can be used to reverse overdoses in infants and children through elderly individuals.
The vending machine is a new service.
Since 2018, Tacoma Public Library has made doses of naloxone available to staff to be able to respond to overdoses happening in libraries. Our current supply of naloxone is provided by the Tacoma Needle Exchange.
Tacoma Public Library has partnered with the Department of Health and Tacoma Needle Exchange to train staff to recognize the signs of an overdose and how to administer naloxone.
There is a staff member in all locations that is trained on how to administer naloxone. However, training is not compulsory for all staff, and employees are not required to administer naloxone.
The library has partnered with various social service institutions to provide crisis and social services at our locations. This is our first time partnering with The Needle Exchange to provide this service.
The naloxone vending machine is in compliance with the WA Department of Health’s Standing Order to Dispense Narcan. Naloxone is widely available in many pharmacies and other businesses across Washington state. In 2021 the WA State Department of Health issued a standing order to dispense naloxone to eligible residents, an opioid overdose reversal medication (citation). Eligible residents include those in a position to assist a person at risk for opioid overdose as well as those at risk for overdosing themselves.
No. The naloxone vending machine is part of a grant that the Needle Exchange/Dave Purchase Project obtained and does not use taxpayer dollars to run. The library receives a modest stipend from the grant for operating costs, such as electricity.
This partnership supports several of our strategic priorities including Equity and Access, Cultivate and Engage Community, and being Responsible and Resilient.
The pandemic increased overdose deaths significantly, and public services like the library serve patrons every day struggling with addiction. We hope increasing access to naloxone will reduce unnecessary overdose deaths in our community.
Peer support services will help us fill an existing gap in providing social services and crisis support that we don’t have the training or resources for otherwise. Services will include crisis support, and connections to local resources, such as medical, legal, or job help.
-
Northwest Room
Email: nwr@tacomalibrary.org
Phone: (253) 280-2814
Mailing Address: Northwest Room - Tacoma Public Library, 1102 Tacoma Ave S., Tacoma, WA 98402
Click here for the Northwest Room's hours. Call 253-280-2814 or schedule a research appointment online.
Northwest ORCA (Online Records and Collections Access) is a searchable database providing access to descriptions of records and manuscripts along with digitized photographs and documents.
Northwest Room's Photography Collection Guide links to many of the larger photograph collections that are available in the Northwest Room's ORCA database.
Tacoma-Pierce County Buildings Index contains information on Tacoma and Pierce County buildings found in Tacoma papers and in over 200 books on local history and architecture. Many of the sources cited in the index are available to view in the Northwest Room.
Tacoma-Pierce County Obituary Index contains thousands of records of obituaries published in local Tacoma newspapers.
The Northwest Room eResource Guide links to materials found in ORCA, research guides, lists, and indexes compiled by the Northwest Room. It provides easy access to a variety of materials about the people, places, and events that have shaped our local history.
Procedures for On Site Research
Northwest Room users may bring with them a laptop or similar device, cell phone, handheld camera, pencils (no pens), paper, and a USB thumb drive for scans. Food and beverages are not allowed at any time.
The Northwest Room’s records and manuscript holdings are non-circulating and stored in closed stacks. Northwest Room staff will retrieve and return materials requested by researchers. Advanced notice is recommended since we may be unable to retrieve these materials on demand.
The Northwest Room’s collections are rare and often irreplaceable. Materials should be handled with extreme care.
All materials must be kept in the order in which they are found. For certain materials, it may be necessary to wear gloves provided by Northwest Room staff.
Patrons may use handheld cameras to photograph items for personal reference.
Advisory Statement on Offensive Content
Materials held by the Northwest Room may include content that is inconsistent with the mission and values of Tacoma Public Library. When utilizing these materials, including content available digitally, you may encounter offensive, oppressive, and/or outdated references and representations. This content is made available for transparency, accountability, and education.
For onsite researchers
Patrons may use a handheld non-flash camera to photograph items in our collection for personal research use. No personal scanners are permitted. If the condition of the item permits, patrons may scan or photocopy material. Materials that are fragile or may be easily damaged may not be scanned by patrons. Patrons may not scan or photocopy photographs from our collection. High resolution digital reproductions of photographs may be purchased for $10.00 per image.
If you plan to scan material onsite, please bring a USB thumb drive to transfer your files. Tacoma Public Library cardholders are given a weekly printing allowance. Non-cardholders may purchase photocopies for .20 cents per page (cash or card is accepted).
Printing from microform readers is available for .20 cents per page (cash only). The printing allowance for cardholders does not include microform printing.
For remote researchers
If the physical condition of the original permits, digitization services for items not under special restrictions are available to patrons for a fee. Copies are for the purpose of private study under Fair Use and/or Library/Archives provisions of copyright law.
If a patron is unable to visit in person or if the necessary material is unable to be safely scanned or photocopied, Northwest Room staff can provide scans of textual documents of up to 100 pages for 25 cents per page. Reproduction requests totaling over 100 pages will be considered on a case-by-case basis and depend on staff availability.
High resolution digital reproductions of photographs may be purchased for $10.00 per image.
To initiate an image digitization order, complete the Image Order Form:
The Northwest Room works with donors to acquire materials related to the Pacific Northwest, Tacoma, and the South Sound region. We are unable to accept all materials offered to us. Potential donors must contact the Northwest Room in advance about their donation.
More information is available in our Northwest Room Donation Guide.
It is the user’s responsibility to obtain any necessary permission from the holder(s) of copyright for the publication or distribution of material held by the Northwest Room. United States copyright law provides protection for unpublished materials as well as for published works.
Publishing/Distributing Material Under Copyright
The Northwest Room does not hold the copyright to all materials in our holdings. We cannot grant permission for the publication of materials for which we do not explicitly control the copyright. Permission may be granted only by the copyright holder(s). It is the researcher’s responsibility to identify the copyright holder(s) to obtain any necessary permission that is required under United States copyright law. Researchers may also consider the four factors of Fair Use described in Section 107 of the US Copyright Act. More information about Fair Use is available from the US Copyright Office.
Publishing/Distributing Material in the Public Domain
Some material held by the Northwest Room is in the public domain (the statutory term of copyright has expired or is otherwise ineligible for copyright protection). More information on using materials in the Public Domain is available from the Copyright Alliance.
Citing Material from the Northwest Room
When using materials from the Northwest Room, a full citation should be included which identifies the Northwest Room at Tacoma Public Library as the repository. Here are some examples of proper citations of different types of material:
- A digitized image citation should include the image identifier, the name of the collection, and the name of the repository: RSS-127, Richards Studio Photograps (Collection 2.1.1), Northwest Room at Tacoma Public Library
- A citation of a document should include descriptive information about the item, the date, the name of the collection, and the name of the repository: Letter from T. Handforth to his mother from Brooklyn, NY, January 12, 1931, Thomas Handforth Papers (Collection 3.5.3), Northwest Room at Tacoma Public Library.
-
Online Resources
Yes! Most of the Tacoma Public Library's online resources are designed to be used outside the library. Simply enter your valid Tacoma Public Library to authenticate, or to create a user account within the specific resource. Any resources *not* available to use outside the library are clearly marked.
Yes, many federal documents are available online. If a document is in the library catalog, there may be a link to view the document online. You may also find federal documents online through the Catalog of Government Publications. -
Request a Visit
Yes, we love visitors!
In order to provide you with the best experience, please fill out our Request a Visit form at least two weeks before the date you are requesting and someone will contact you to arrange the visit.
The library can offer a variety of services. Below are some examples of activities which can be requested during a group visit.
Storytime - age-appropriate selections will be read aloud to the group. May include other activities such as songs, finger plays, and movement.
Library Tour - an overview of important areas of the library such as the reference desk, check-out desk, public catalog computers, location of library materials, etc.
How to Use the Library - an overview and/or detailed information about using various library services. Examples include: how to use the library catalog, how to download eBooks from the library, library databases instruction, resources for completing class assignments, etc.
Booktalks - short introductions to a variety of age-appropriate books intended to grab the interest of the audience.
Yes, a Librarian would love to visit you!
To schedule a visit, please fill out our Request a Visit form at least two weeks before the date you are requesting and someone will contact you to arrange the visit.
The library can offer a variety of services. Below are some examples of activities which can be requested during a group visit.
Storytime - age-appropriate selections will be read aloud to the group. May include other activities such as songs, finger plays, and movement.
How to Use the Library - an overview and/or detailed information about using various library services. Examples include: how to use the library catalog, how to download eBooks from the library, library databases instruction, resources for completing class assignments, etc.
Booktalks - short introductions to a variety of age-appropriate books intended to grab the interest of the audience.
Yes, we love to participate in community and school events!
We often provide library information and library card registration at community and school events throughout Tacoma.
Please fill out our Request a Visit form and we will contact you as soon as possible.
-
Storytime S.T.E.A.M. Backpacks
Storytime S.T.E.A.M. Backpacks as a fun way to focus on exploring and playing with different mathematical ideas. Each kit features books, toys, and a paper with suggested activities, all inside a backpack you can check out!
You can find a complete list of books included in the kits as well as additional suggested titles here.
Due to limited supply, the Storytime S.T.E.A.M. backpacks are available on a first come, first served basis and are not holdable.
Please do not return in book drops, but go to the desk of any library during open hours and return to a staff member.
They are free to check out with a Tacoma Public Library card. Sign up for a card here.
A replacement fee will be charged to your account if a portion of the kit is lost. Please see staff for details.
-
Suggest for Purchase
To suggest an item for purchase, please fill out the Suggest for Purchase form online or contact any Tacoma Public Library branch.
Unfortunately, the Library cannot purchase everything that is requested. Suggestions will be evaluated using the Library’s selection criteria as stated in the Collection Development Policy.
The online Suggest for Purchase form requires a user to log in because suggestions are managed from within your Library Account. If you do not have a Tacoma Public Library card, you can get a card and make a suggestion at one of our eight branch locations.
You can make up to 3 purchase suggestions each month. Please suggest only one format per title. Suggestions are tracked in your Library Account.
Librarians are guided by selection criteria outlined in the Collection Development Policy, as well as the current budgetary circumstances.
Your purchase suggestions are managed within your My Account Settings area. Once logged in, you will be able to see your suggestions, their status, and it's where you'll receive messages from the library about your suggestion.
Congratulations on the publication of your book and thank you for your interest in adding your work to Tacoma Public Library’s collection. Tacoma Public Library has developed a Local Author Collection and will happily make available books that meet the following criteria:
- The author resides in Tacoma or Pierce County, or the setting or subject is the city of
Tacoma or Pierce County. - One copy of the book is donated to the library for inclusion in the Local Author
Circulating Collection. Additional copies may be purchased to meet patron demand
per the standard holds to copies ratio. - The author must submit a Bibliographic Information for Local Author Collection form.
- The format of the book is suitable for library circulation
The Collection Development Department will review submitted material to ensure it is appropriate for the Local Author Collection. Books approved for the Local Author Collection will be identified with a local author label and will be located at the Main Branch. Books in the Local Author Collection will be subject to our standard deselection guidelines.
Please bring a donated copy of your work and a completed Bibliographic Information for Local Author Collection form to any Tacoma Public Library. You can expect most works to appear in the catalog within six weeks of submission date. If you have any questions, please email info@tacomalibrary.org.
Patrons who have a valid Tacoma Card or Paid Card may suggest items for purchase. Neighbor cards for patrons living in another library’s service area must suggest items through their home library system.
- The author resides in Tacoma or Pierce County, or the setting or subject is the city of
-
Summer Reading
You can sign up by visiting the Beanstack website, or by downloading the mobile app. Beanstack makes it easy to sign up your whole family for the program. For more information on using Beanstack, visit our Beanstack FAQs.
If you don’t have access to Beanstack, you can print an activity log or stop by one of our branches to pick up a paper activity log.
All ages can join! We have a program for preschoolers, kids, teens, and adults. A TPL library card is not required.
To complete the Summer Reading Challenge, we ask that you track your reading and minutes or choose and complete other activities from the reading log. The challenge is complete when you have finished a total of 25 badges. If you're tracking online, Beanstack will give you a badge after you complete 25 activities, letting you know to visit a library branch to pick up your prize. If you're tracking on a paper activity log, when you've completed 25 activities, you've finished the program and may visit a branch with your completed log to pick up your prize.
Research has shown that summer reading prevents “summer slide,” or loss of knowledge and reading proficiency over the summer. TPL's Summer Reading Challenge is a fun and beneficial experience for all ages! By participating in Summer Reading Challenge, your child will foster a love of reading, learning, and trying new experiences. Check out our events calendar to see events and programs for all ages!
Yes! You can fulfill the ‘reading’ requirement with a variety of library materials.
Yes! Please use the Beanstack app to track your progress. Activity and reading tracking can all be done using the website or app. For more information on using Beanstack, visit our Beanstack FAQs.
Not necessarily. If you choose to participate by tracking time spent reading, you are welcome to record the titles of the books you read, and even write reviews, but it is not required.
The 2025 Summer Reading Challenge features a completion prize, biweekly raffles (for Beanstack users), and a grand prize raffle for each age group.
To receive your completion prizes, just visit a branch and show us your paper activity log or have a staff member look up your Beanstack account. Prizes vary by age group and are available while supplies last.
To be eligible for the biweekly raffle prizes, you must be registered on Beanstack. Visit your local branch for assistance.
When you complete the challenge, you’ll be entered into a grand prize raffle. Winners will be contacted by August 31.
-
Test Proctoring
Yes, we proctor exams free of charge. Contact your local branch at least two weeks in advance to make an appointment. Please note that test proctoring is subject to staff availability.
-
TPL Virtual Reference
TPL Virtual Reference provides access to information and assistance 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The service is manned by TPL staff all hours the library is open. If you need information or assistance after hours, there are librarians around the state and country ready to help you through this service.
You’ll find our helpful Chat Buddy in the lower righthand corner on the home page of the TPL website.
During the Library’s open hours, you can ask all the same questions you ask when you’re in the library or on the phone. Need help with an ebook, or need a good source for a research paper, we can help. Want to renew your materials or place a hold, we can do that too.
Library workers from around the state and country can help you with using electronic resources, general library information, program information and research. They can’t provide library account information
TPL Virtual Reference is available during our normal operating hours. Any time we are open to the public, the service is provided by TPL staff!
-
TPS Pathway Partnership
The partnership between Tacoma Public Library and Tacoma Public School District (TPS) allows every TPS student (Pre-K – 12) and teacher to have Tacoma Public Library access using their student or employee ID card.
Click on “Log in/My Account” in the upper right hand corner of any page of the Tacoma Public Library website and then click on "Log In / Register". Type your student ID number into the field “Username or Barcode” and type 1234 into the “PIN” field.
You'll be able to create your library username and activate your online account.
Once you have logged in, consider clicking on “Personal Information” to change your pin number and add an email address or phone number.
Each school year there is a two week maintenance window starting on the Friday before Labor Day. During this time you will not be able to use your pathway account (school ID) while the library updates student and employee records for the new school year.
-
Video Games
We have a very small collection of video games to start with. The game cartridges will be held behind the circulation desk. Please bring the case of the game you would like to borrow to the circulation desk and our team will place the game in the case before checkout.
You may checkout 1 game at a time for 1 week. At the moment, the video games are not holdable or renewable.
As we grow the video game collection, these parameters may change.
You can find what games are offered by looking under Games & Software in the lefthand menu of our catalog. Here's a list of all games currently in the collection.
All patrons except those with Quick or Pathway card types may checkout a video game.
-
Volunteer
Thank you for your interest in volunteering at Tacoma Public Library! At this time, we are not currently accepting new volunteers. We truly appreciate your enthusiasm and support for the library. Please check back in the future for updates on volunteer opportunities.
-
World Language Collection
Please check the catalog first. The search box accepts text in Cyrillic and Hangeul, as well as letters with diacritics (“accent marks”).
If the item is not in the catalog, you’re welcome to submit a suggestion for purchase by logging in to your account. Print copies of the form are also available in Korean, Spanish, Russian, Ukrainian, and Vietnamese by emailing info@tacomalibrary.org.
Please note that only TPL account holders residing within Tacoma city limits are eligible to submit suggestions.
TPL is prioritizing the primary languages of limited English proficiency (LEP) households. We will continue to monitor demographic changes and work with branch staff to determine which languages might be added in the future.
If the book has been published more than a year ago, it may be eligible for ILL service.
Please note that only TPL account holders residing within Tacoma city limits are eligible for borrowing through ILL.
All branches have a Spanish collection. Currently, the other languages are distributed as follows:
TPL currently buys books in Korean, Russian, Spanish, Ukrainian, and Vietnamese. This selection is based on staff recommendations and feedback from community engagement efforts from 2018 on. The five languages were also identified by the 2021-2022 City of Tacoma Survey as the top “primarily-used languages” by LEP households.