Find answers to guide you through your library experience—whether you're managing your library account, finding information about our wireless services, or horning someone with a memorial, we're here to help. Discover details about our wireless access and other services, learn how to schedule proctored exams, and understand how the library is funded. Looking to give back? Explore volunteer opportunities and find out how you can support your library community.
Visit a library branch or apply online if you're 18 or older. Note: If you've had a physical card but can't find it, contact your home branch to check if you're eligible for a replacement.
To apply for a full-service card, visit a branch with proof of identification to receive a physical library card, which can be used at all branches. You can check out and place holds on physical items.
To apply for an online account, visit this webpage. Online accounts provide access to the catalog, mobile app, and various services and resources. Accounts expire every 5 years and do not include a physical card, limiting some services. For example, the interlibrary loan service (requesting items the library doesn't own) is not available.
Learn more about your library card and open the Circulation Policy. (PDF, 434 KB) 
How many items can I check out, and for how long? View chart for adults, teens, and children.
Visit or contact a branch, use the Live Chat service, or update your address, phone number, or email address via the My Account. Under My Information, choose the Submit Change Request button. This option is not currently available in the mobile app.
Library cards do expire, so find out how to renew it.
Full-service accounts (including online-only accounts) expire every five years to help us keep your information current. Exceptions: A temporary account is valid for 3 months. Libraries Southwest cardholders should contact their home parish library for details.
All expired accounts must be renewed in person. Staff will verify that your account information is current. Please bring a photo ID and proof of address. For additional information, visit the Renew Card section.
All balances must be paid before accounts can be renewed or items checked out, including both physical and electronic materials. Any linked accounts must also be free of fines. Outstanding fines can be paid through the online payment service. Blocked users must visit your local branch to resolve issues.
If you've forgotten your PIN, what can you do? Reset your password by either visiting a library branch, use Live Chat, or reset it through the online catalog.
Reset your PIN in the online catalog:
Select the Log In option, then choose Forgot your PIN? Enter your library card number (barcode), and you’ll receive an email with further instructions. A preferred email address must be on file with the library. Notes: Reset your PIN within an hour of receiving the confirmation email; otherwise, you'll need to start the process again. If your account doesn’t have an email address on file, please contact the library for assistance.
Learn the specific impacts per resource.
The Library follows a set of criteria based on professional standards and approaches. We build a collection appropriate for our role in the community, providing materials for both informational and leisure purposes. View the Collection Development Policy. (PDF, 436 KB)
Similar to how items are added in the collection, the Library applies the same selection criteria to suggestions and requests. We may be unable to fulfill certain interlibrary loan requests if no lending library has the item available (IV. SELECTION, E. Suggestions & Requests). Additionally, we may not be able to purchase an item if it is unavailable from an approved vendor (IV. SELECTION, G. Purchasing). View the Collection Development Policy. (PDF, 436 KB)
Patrons may donate funds to purchase library materials in memory of someone or in honor of someone. They may make general suggestions regarding the subject. Materials are selected and bought by the Collection Development Coordinator. A bookplate is placed in the material, and when it is sent to the library branch, the donor and the honoree’s family are notified. Direct donation of actual materials is discouraged as these are often not in compliance with collection selection rules regarding currency, authority, etc.
Gifts of money are always welcome and appreciated. Specific recommendations from the donor are honored as far as the suggestions enhance subject areas of need within the collection and follow the Collection Development Policy selection guidelines. (PDF, 436 KB)
Print and complete the Donation Form for Memorials, Honors, or Gifts (PDF, 710 KB) then bring it to your local branch.
Donations are only being accepted by the Friends of the Library at the Central Branch and the Westlake Branch. The library accepts unrestricted, irrevocable gifts of books and other library materials.
Central Branch
301 W. Claude St., Lake Charles
Tuesdays: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Sundays: 2 PM - 4 PM during their regularly scheduled book sale hours
Contact (337) 721-7116.
Westlake Branch
937 Mulberry Street, Westlake
Thursdays: 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM during their regularly scheduled book sale hours
NOTE: If book sale staff is limited, donations will not be accepted. Please contact the Westlake Branch in advance at 337-721-7113.
Your donations are accepted with the understanding that they’ll be added to the collection following the Material Selection Plan. The library reserves the right to sell or otherwise dispose of gifts and donated materials through branch book sales, the Friends of the Library book sales, recycling, or disposal services. Calcasieu Parish Public Library will not assign a value to donated gift materials. However, the library will stamp or sign the patron’s list of items for X number of books, boxes of books, books-on-tapes, etc., which you can use for tax purposes.
Our branches offer fax, scanning, and printing services, as well as laptop, iPad, and hotspot checkouts, and charging stations.
This service is offered at several of our branches. For more details, please contact the following library locations.
Central Library
301 W. Claude Street, Lake Charles, LA
(337) 721-7116
Moss Bluff Library
261 Parish Road, Lake Charles, LA
(337) 721-7128
Sulphur Regional Library
1160 Cypress St., Sulphur, LA
(337) 721-7141
All locations offer Wi-Fi and wireless printing. Printing from public PCs is $0.20 per page. Color copying and color printing are available at all locations for $0.50 per page.
Additional services include curbside pickup, Book-a-Librarian, and Little Free Library.
Operations are funded through a dedicated ad valorem property tax renewed every 10 years.
Due to the rising cost of background checks, we discontinued our volunteer program. However, we'd LOVE to have you as a FRIEND! What's a Friend of the Library? Friends of the Library, Calcasieu are parish residents who work together to help the Calcasieu Parish Public Library, including all branches and Library To-Go, better serve the community. View membership options and the awesome benefits that help your library!
