We are fine-free. Please read through our Fine Free FAQs on what that means for you.
Most items automatically renew twice if no holds are pending, but you may check due dates and/or renew your items by logging into your account online or by calling the Renewal line at 847-590-8706.
Lost & Damaged Items: The Library does not accept materials in lieu of payment. You will be charged the replacement cost for damaged or lost materials, and are unable to check out any new materials until the replacement cost is paid. You may pay by cash or check at the Service Center or by credit/debit card online through your account.
Videogames, Library of Things items*, and STEAM Kits are only available for checkout to CAPL cardholders.
Can I check out a book without my Library card?
A Cary Area Library cardholder may check out without their library card using a driver’s license or state ID. We encourage you to always bring your library card to ensure that your privacy and responsibility for items is protected. If carrying your card is inconvenient, you can download our app (Android | iOS) and store your library card barcode in it. We will also accept cards that have been stored on membership and loyalty card smartphone apps.
Item Type | Limits | Loan Period | Renewals |
Books | None | 3 weeks | 2 |
New Fiction | None | 2 weeks | 2 |
Hot Pick Fiction | None | 2 weeks | 0 |
Magazines | None | 1 week | 2 |
Audiobooks | None | 3 weeks | 2 |
DVDs/Blu-rays | None | 1 week | 2 |
CDs | None | 3 weeks | 2 |
Videogames | 5; only CAPL cardholders | 1 week | 1 |
Playaway Views | 5 | 1 week | 1 |
Playaway Launchpad | 2; only CAPL cardholders | 1 week | 1 |
Wonderbooks | 5; only CAPL cardholders | 3 weeks | 1 |
Instant Book Club Bags | 2 | 6 weeks | 0 |
STEAM Kits | 3/family; only CAPL cardholders | 3 weeks | 1 |
Mobile Hot Spot* | 1/family, age 18+; only CAPL cardholders | 1 week | 1 |
GoPro* | 1; age 18+;only CAPL cardholders | 1 week | 1 |
3D Printing Pen* | 1; age 18+; only CAPL cardholders | 1 week | 1 |
Fishing poles | 5 | 1 week | 0 |
Knitting/Crochet Tools | 5 | 3 weeks | 1 |
AccuQuilt Die Cutter | 1, age 18+ | 1 week | 1 |
AccuQuilt Die Cuts | None | 1 week | 1 |
Woodburning/Soldering Iron* | age 18+; only CAPL cardholders | 1 week | 1 |
Wood Chisel Set* | age 18+; only CAPL cardholders | 3 weeks | 1 |
Wood Carving Set* | age 18+; only CAPL cardholders | 3 weeks | 1 |
Umbrellas | 1 | 1 week | 1 |