Using the Library | District of Columbia Public Library
Source: https://www.dclibrary.org/using-the-library
Archived: 2026-04-23 17:19
Using the Library | District of Columbia Public Library
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The Library has many supports and services to help you get where you want to go. Check out the guides and important library information on how you can best use the library to accomplish your goals.
Popular Library Services
Passport Acceptance Office
Get a passport, renew adult passports, get passport photos.
Borrowing Materials
Learn about the types of materials you can borrow, loan periods, placing holds, and accessing your account.
Meeting and Study Room Guide
Quick tips to help you plan your meeting and use our meeting rooms.
Find the Services You Need
Adult Literacy
The Adult Learning Department offers book discussions and information about DC adult literacy programs through our directory.
Adults
Adult Learning
Image
American Sign Language Classes and Services
Webpage breaking down the available classes and services for American Sign Language.
All Ages
Accessibility
Image
Appointments at The People's Archive
Make an Appointment with The People's Archive to meet with staff and connect with their special collections.
Teens
Adults
Research
Image
Assistive Technology Support
A guide to assistive technology and equipment available throughout the DCPL system.
All Ages
Accessibility
Image
Beyond the Book
Beyond the Book is a city-wide reading and learning club that engages developing readers across D.C. around a carefully selected title along with fun and educational learning activities that will deepen their understanding and enjoyment of the book as well as build their reading skills.
Kids
Library Services
Image
Books from Birth
All children who live in DC are eligible to receive a free book by mail each month from birth until age five to build their home libraries.
Kids
Library Services
Image
Borrowing Materials
Find information on borrowing books, DVDs, eBooks and more, including checkout limits, renewal periods and placing holds.
All Ages
Library Services
Image
Citizenship Classes
Prepare for the United States Naturalization Exam with classes at DC Public Library
All Ages
Civic Services
Image
Computer Classes
The Adult Learning Department offers a wide range of computer classes.
Adults
Job/Career
Image
Coworking at DC Public Library
DC Public Library is your neighborhood coworking destination. From supporting your day-to-day work with flexible workspaces to growing your skillset to get that promotion to striking out on your own and starting your first business, the library is here for all the ways you work.
Adults
Job/Career
Image
Dance and Recording Studios (Studio Lab)
The Dance and Recording Studios, or Studio Lab, provides space to focus on exploring, learning and celebrating dance, music and sound production, photography and videography.
Teens
Adults
DIY/Makers
Image
DC Jail Video Visitation
DC Public Library partners with D.C. Jail in their Video Visitation program.
All Ages
Library Services
Image
DC Talking Book and Braille Program (NLS)
Part of the National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled (NLS).
Kids
Teens
Adults
All Ages
Accessibility
Image
Devices for Residents
This device pilot program is part of the District’s Tech Together DC initiative and is funded through the Federal Communication Commission’s (FCC) Emergency Connectivity Fund (ECF).
All Ages
Library Services
Image
Digital Certifications
All of the free digital certifications offered at DC Public Library.
Adults
Job/Career
Image
Digital Navigators
One-on-one tech support at DC Public Library.
All Ages
Technology
Image
Digital Preservation (Memory Lab)
A do-it-yourself (DIY) service at the Labs that provides you equipment to digitize home movies, scan photographs or slides and more! Step-by-step instructions are available letting you control the process of your personal archiving project from start to finish.
A brief equipment tutorial is required at the beginning of a user’s first session.
Teens
Adults
DIY/Makers
Image
Ello
Ello is your child’s read-along companion who listens, teaches, and transforms them into an enthusiastic reader. Available at eight neighborhood libraries.
Kids
Library Services
Image
ESL Groups
The Adult Learning Department offers English Conversation Circles for those looking to improve their speaking and listening skills. This department also offers Citizenship Classes for those looking to pass the US Citizenship Exam.
Adults
Adult Learning
Image
Event Rentals at MLK
Host an event at the newly designed Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library.
Adults
Library Services
Image
Event Supplies Library
Are you planning an event? DC Public Library has partnered with the DC Office of Planning to bring you their Event Lending Library to the Labs at MLK Library.
Adults
DIY/Makers
Image
GED Prep
The Adult Learning Department offers individualized GED and high school skills tutoring for adult learners, and the GED Ready Practice Test.
Adults
Adult Learning
Image
Goodmaps
Navigate the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library with Goodmaps. Goodmaps Explore is a free assistive app designed to help the visually impaired navigate indoor spaces independently.
Teens
Adults
Accessibility
Image
Group Visits to the People's Archive and Lesson Plans
Visit the People's Archive with your organization or school group.
All Ages
Adult Learning
Image
Interlibrary Loan
Interlibrary Loan is a way to request books, microfilm, articles and other material not owned by the DC Public Library. The service is available to DC Public Library customers with current library cards in good standing.
All Ages
Library Services
Image
Job Seekers
The Adult Learning Department offers assistance with your job search process.
Adults
Job/Career
Image
Legal Support Services
In partnership with the Neighborhood Legal Services Program and Legal Counsel for the Elderly, DC Public Library is happy to provide legal assistance services.
Adults
Civic Services
Image
Library By Mail
Service to mail library material to those who cannot physically visit a DCPL location due to disability or illness.
All Ages
Accessibility
Image
Maker Space and Machinery (Fabrication Lab)
The Fabrication Lab, or Fab Lab, a library maker space provides you with equipment, programs and tools to explore, learn and make. The Fabrication Lab connects you with other D.C. makers and helps you scale your creative and entrepreneurial projects.
Teens
Adults
DIY/Makers
Image
Marianne’s by DC Central Kitchen
Located on the first floor of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Public Library in downtown, DC, Marianne’s by DC Central Kitchen builds on the hugely successful DC Central Kitchen Cafe model.
All Ages
Library Services
Image
Meeting & Study Rooms
Library card holders can reserve meeting and study rooms free of charge.
Teens
Adults
Library Services
Image
MLK Library Tours
Take a guided tour of the modernized Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library in downtown D.C.
All Ages
Library Services
Image
New/First Time Passports
Apply for a New or First Time Passport with the Passport Acceptance Office at the MLK Library.
All Ages
Civic Services
Image
Notary Public Commission Services
The Notary Public Commission, a free service located on the 2nd floor of the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library, is happy to help you notarize any eligible documents.
Adults
Civic Services
Image
Passport Renewals
Renew your passport with the Passport Acceptance Office at the MLK Library.
All Ages
Civic Services
Image
Peer Support Specialists
The Peer Outreach Program at DC Public Library supports library customers experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness.
All Ages
Civic Services
Image
Public Art & Exhibits
The DC Public Library celebrates art and exhibits as a source of learning, discovery, growth, and connection. The Art and Exhibits Program at DC Public Library is a portal to the library’s resources and a laboratory for engagement with Washington, D.C.’s past, present and future.
All Ages
Arts
Image
Public Computers & Printing
Information about using public access computers, printing, and scanning.
Kids
Teens
Adults
All Ages
Library Services
Image
Reasonable Accomodations
Request reasonable accommodations for DC Public Library events, programs, services, and Board of Trustees meetings.
All Ages
Accessibility
Image
Scans from The People's Archive
Learn how to order scans or copies from The People’s Archive collections. Please note some scans include fees.
Adults
Research
Image
Small Business Help
Receive a one-on-one business consultation at the library in partnership with the DC Department of Small and Local Business.
Adults
Job/Career
Image
Staff Picks
Get a personalized reading list delivered right to your inbox with Staff Picks!
All Ages
Library Services
Image
Tax Preparation
Get help preparing your income tax return through the library partnership with the AARP Foundation.
Adults
Civic Services
Image
Tool Library
Have an upcoming DIY project? Discover what you can do with the Labs brand new Tool Library!
Adults
DIY/Makers
Image
Tutoring
The Adult Learning Department offers GED and CASAS tutoring in person for those needing preparation for these tests.
Adults
Adult Learning
Image
Voter Registration
DC Public Library serves as a voter registration agency throughout the year as well as a voting center during elections.
Adults
Civic Services
Image
Help & Support
Reserve a room or hold an event
Explore eBooks and online resources
How to borrow and place holds
Contact Us
Send us a message
Find a library location
Subscribe to our newsletter
Skip to main content
Translate
Get a Card
My Account
The Library has many supports and services to help you get where you want to go. Check out the guides and important library information on how you can best use the library to accomplish your goals.
Popular Library Services
Passport Acceptance Office
Get a passport, renew adult passports, get passport photos.
Borrowing Materials
Learn about the types of materials you can borrow, loan periods, placing holds, and accessing your account.
Meeting and Study Room Guide
Quick tips to help you plan your meeting and use our meeting rooms.
Find the Services You Need
Adult Literacy
The Adult Learning Department offers book discussions and information about DC adult literacy programs through our directory.
Adults
Adult Learning
Image
American Sign Language Classes and Services
Webpage breaking down the available classes and services for American Sign Language.
All Ages
Accessibility
Image
Appointments at The People's Archive
Make an Appointment with The People's Archive to meet with staff and connect with their special collections.
Teens
Adults
Research
Image
Assistive Technology Support
A guide to assistive technology and equipment available throughout the DCPL system.
All Ages
Accessibility
Image
Beyond the Book
Beyond the Book is a city-wide reading and learning club that engages developing readers across D.C. around a carefully selected title along with fun and educational learning activities that will deepen their understanding and enjoyment of the book as well as build their reading skills.
Kids
Library Services
Image
Books from Birth
All children who live in DC are eligible to receive a free book by mail each month from birth until age five to build their home libraries.
Kids
Library Services
Image
Borrowing Materials
Find information on borrowing books, DVDs, eBooks and more, including checkout limits, renewal periods and placing holds.
All Ages
Library Services
Image
Citizenship Classes
Prepare for the United States Naturalization Exam with classes at DC Public Library
All Ages
Civic Services
Image
Computer Classes
The Adult Learning Department offers a wide range of computer classes.
Adults
Job/Career
Image
Coworking at DC Public Library
DC Public Library is your neighborhood coworking destination. From supporting your day-to-day work with flexible workspaces to growing your skillset to get that promotion to striking out on your own and starting your first business, the library is here for all the ways you work.
Adults
Job/Career
Image
Dance and Recording Studios (Studio Lab)
The Dance and Recording Studios, or Studio Lab, provides space to focus on exploring, learning and celebrating dance, music and sound production, photography and videography.
Teens
Adults
DIY/Makers
Image
DC Jail Video Visitation
DC Public Library partners with D.C. Jail in their Video Visitation program.
All Ages
Library Services
Image
DC Talking Book and Braille Program (NLS)
Part of the National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled (NLS).
Kids
Teens
Adults
All Ages
Accessibility
Image
Devices for Residents
This device pilot program is part of the District’s Tech Together DC initiative and is funded through the Federal Communication Commission’s (FCC) Emergency Connectivity Fund (ECF).
All Ages
Library Services
Image
Digital Certifications
All of the free digital certifications offered at DC Public Library.
Adults
Job/Career
Image
Digital Navigators
One-on-one tech support at DC Public Library.
All Ages
Technology
Image
Digital Preservation (Memory Lab)
A do-it-yourself (DIY) service at the Labs that provides you equipment to digitize home movies, scan photographs or slides and more! Step-by-step instructions are available letting you control the process of your personal archiving project from start to finish.
A brief equipment tutorial is required at the beginning of a user’s first session.
Teens
Adults
DIY/Makers
Image
Ello
Ello is your child’s read-along companion who listens, teaches, and transforms them into an enthusiastic reader. Available at eight neighborhood libraries.
Kids
Library Services
Image
ESL Groups
The Adult Learning Department offers English Conversation Circles for those looking to improve their speaking and listening skills. This department also offers Citizenship Classes for those looking to pass the US Citizenship Exam.
Adults
Adult Learning
Image
Event Rentals at MLK
Host an event at the newly designed Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library.
Adults
Library Services
Image
Event Supplies Library
Are you planning an event? DC Public Library has partnered with the DC Office of Planning to bring you their Event Lending Library to the Labs at MLK Library.
Adults
DIY/Makers
Image
GED Prep
The Adult Learning Department offers individualized GED and high school skills tutoring for adult learners, and the GED Ready Practice Test.
Adults
Adult Learning
Image
Goodmaps
Navigate the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library with Goodmaps. Goodmaps Explore is a free assistive app designed to help the visually impaired navigate indoor spaces independently.
Teens
Adults
Accessibility
Image
Group Visits to the People's Archive and Lesson Plans
Visit the People's Archive with your organization or school group.
All Ages
Adult Learning
Image
Interlibrary Loan
Interlibrary Loan is a way to request books, microfilm, articles and other material not owned by the DC Public Library. The service is available to DC Public Library customers with current library cards in good standing.
All Ages
Library Services
Image
Job Seekers
The Adult Learning Department offers assistance with your job search process.
Adults
Job/Career
Image
Legal Support Services
In partnership with the Neighborhood Legal Services Program and Legal Counsel for the Elderly, DC Public Library is happy to provide legal assistance services.
Adults
Civic Services
Image
Library By Mail
Service to mail library material to those who cannot physically visit a DCPL location due to disability or illness.
All Ages
Accessibility
Image
Maker Space and Machinery (Fabrication Lab)
The Fabrication Lab, or Fab Lab, a library maker space provides you with equipment, programs and tools to explore, learn and make. The Fabrication Lab connects you with other D.C. makers and helps you scale your creative and entrepreneurial projects.
Teens
Adults
DIY/Makers
Image
Marianne’s by DC Central Kitchen
Located on the first floor of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Public Library in downtown, DC, Marianne’s by DC Central Kitchen builds on the hugely successful DC Central Kitchen Cafe model.
All Ages
Library Services
Image
Meeting & Study Rooms
Library card holders can reserve meeting and study rooms free of charge.
Teens
Adults
Library Services
Image
MLK Library Tours
Take a guided tour of the modernized Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library in downtown D.C.
All Ages
Library Services
Image
New/First Time Passports
Apply for a New or First Time Passport with the Passport Acceptance Office at the MLK Library.
All Ages
Civic Services
Image
Notary Public Commission Services
The Notary Public Commission, a free service located on the 2nd floor of the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library, is happy to help you notarize any eligible documents.
Adults
Civic Services
Image
Passport Renewals
Renew your passport with the Passport Acceptance Office at the MLK Library.
All Ages
Civic Services
Image
Peer Support Specialists
The Peer Outreach Program at DC Public Library supports library customers experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness.
All Ages
Civic Services
Image
Public Art & Exhibits
The DC Public Library celebrates art and exhibits as a source of learning, discovery, growth, and connection. The Art and Exhibits Program at DC Public Library is a portal to the library’s resources and a laboratory for engagement with Washington, D.C.’s past, present and future.
All Ages
Arts
Image
Public Computers & Printing
Information about using public access computers, printing, and scanning.
Kids
Teens
Adults
All Ages
Library Services
Image
Reasonable Accomodations
Request reasonable accommodations for DC Public Library events, programs, services, and Board of Trustees meetings.
All Ages
Accessibility
Image
Scans from The People's Archive
Learn how to order scans or copies from The People’s Archive collections. Please note some scans include fees.
Adults
Research
Image
Small Business Help
Receive a one-on-one business consultation at the library in partnership with the DC Department of Small and Local Business.
Adults
Job/Career
Image
Staff Picks
Get a personalized reading list delivered right to your inbox with Staff Picks!
All Ages
Library Services
Image
Tax Preparation
Get help preparing your income tax return through the library partnership with the AARP Foundation.
Adults
Civic Services
Image
Tool Library
Have an upcoming DIY project? Discover what you can do with the Labs brand new Tool Library!
Adults
DIY/Makers
Image
Tutoring
The Adult Learning Department offers GED and CASAS tutoring in person for those needing preparation for these tests.
Adults
Adult Learning
Image
Voter Registration
DC Public Library serves as a voter registration agency throughout the year as well as a voting center during elections.
Adults
Civic Services
Image
Help & Support
Reserve a room or hold an event
Explore eBooks and online resources
How to borrow and place holds
Contact Us
Send us a message
Find a library location
Subscribe to our newsletter