The Library provides home delivery of Library items for patrons who are unable to visit a Library location due to a disability. The Library pays the postage cost when items are mailed to the Library by Library-by-Mail patrons. If the patron chooses to return their item(s) by mail, they are responsible for postage costs and for mailing the item(s) at least 5 days before the due date for adequate delivery time.
Eligibility
Person who is unable to visit the Library due to a disability.
Resident who lives inside the San Antonio city limit or owns a business or property inside the San Antonio city limits.
Bexar County resident who lives outside the San Antonio city limits and pays the annual $30 fee. This fee is effective October 1, 2026
Obtaining a Card
If you currently have a Library card and want to convert it to a Library-by-Mail Library Card, call 210-207-2600.
If you do not currently have a Library card, call 210-207-2600 to request a Library Card application be mailed to you. Complete the application and mail it with the fee payment, if applicable, to the following address:
Central Library
Attn: Central Circulation Unit
600 Soledad
San Antonio, TX 78205
Once the application is received, it will be processed and a Library card will be mailed to you with usage instructions.
You may be required to submit certification of your disability or homebound status.
Requesting Materials
You can browse the catalog and place holds online.
You can call 210-207-2500 to request a title or to speak to a Librarian who will assist you in finding a title you wish to place on hold. Please have your card with you when you call. You will be asked for your Library Card number in order to place items on hold.
Once the materials you have requested are available, they will be mailed to you. Held items will not be available for pickup at a branch library.
Loan Periods for Mailed Items
Books and audiobooks – 4 weeks
DVDs, Blu-rays, and music CDs – 4 weeks
When you receive your holds, the included receipt will list the due date for each item. Be sure to return items by their due dates.
Renewing Items
Items may be renewed online or by phone. Books and audiobooks can be renewed up to five additional loan periods, unless the item(s) have been requested by someone else or are Interlibrary Loan item(s).
Returning Materials
Items may be returned by mail, or you can have a friend or relative return the items to any San Antonio Public Library location.
The Library covers the cost of shipping items to you. You are responsible for the postage if you return items by mail.
