Account services and fees

City introduces library auto-renewal pilot program


The City is constantly looking for ways to improve your library experience and serve you better. One of the most frequently requested service upgrades we hear from our patrons is the ability to automatically renew library items. We are pleased to announce that we have launched a new pilot program to do just that!

Effective December 1, 2018, the library will automatically renew eligible items checked out to you one day before each items’ due date. The renewals will happen automatically and there is no action you need to take. 

Even with auto renewal, please continue to keep an eye on your due dates and renewals to avoid overdue charges.

Your library items will not be automatically renewed if: 
  • The item is on hold for another patron
  • The maximum number of renewals (5) has been reached 
  • It is an item from the Quick Pick collection, which are never renewable 
  • Library account is not current and you have a balance of $15 or more
We hope you enjoy this convenient new service! If you have any questions, or would like to opt out of Auto Renewal, contact the Library directly or stop by the Main Library or Belle Haven branch. We want to hear from you!

Library account services


These account services are available with your valid Peninsula Library System Library Card. Need a library card? Apply online!

Online account


Access your online account in order to:
  • Renew items
  • Check / cancel holds
  • Pay overdue fines or fees
  • Opt in to remember your borrowing history going forward

Email notices


Get hold and overdue notices by email, rather than telephone or postcard! Also get courtesy pre-overdue notices (borrowers are responsible for returning items on time, even if pre-overdue notice is not received). To enroll or update:
  • Visit the PLS catalog
  • Log into your account
  • Click the "Modify Personal Info" button
  • Enter an email address that you'll check daily

Text message notices


To sign up for text message notices, just text the message SIGNUP to pls@shoutbomb.com. For more information, see the frequently asked questions. By signing up, you can:
  • Get hold and pre-overdue notices
  • Receive and manage notices for others' cards
  • Renew items
  • Search the library catalog by ISBN

Telephone access (Telecirc)


Call our automated voice system anytime at 650-638-0399 in order to:
  • Hear fines and fees
  • Hear if items are currently being held for you
  • Hear titles and due dates for items you have out
  • Renew most items

Live telephone help


For live help, call 650-330-2501 during library hours. You can also email us (response time may be up to one day).

Borrowing limits


The borrowing limits are as follows (if no holds on item):
  • DVDs: 1 week, 5 renewals
  • Quick Picks:  1 week, no renewals
  • All other items: 3 weeks, 5 renewals

Fees


Service Fee
Hold (item transfer within PLS)
 No fee
Internet login without library card
 $1
Replacement of card
 $2
Collection Agency Fee
 $10
Meeting room rental (per hour)
 $35

Overdue fines


  • Adult: $.25 per day / $8 maximum
  • Juvenile: $.15 per day / $4 maximum
  • DVDs:  $.25 per day / $8 maximum
  • Learning Language DVDs / CDs: $.25 per day / $8 maximum
  • Lost materials: The replacement charge for lost materials includes the price of the item and a $5 processing fee. Payment for lost items is non-refundable. The library does not accept patron supplied replacements for lost items.