Ask Librarians Online

Question:

How do I reserve a book on-line?

Answer:

To place and cancel holds on items, and/or check your library card record you need the barcode on the back of your library card and your Personal Identification Number (PIN). Your PIN is usually the last 4 digits of your phone number unless you specified a different number when you registered for your NYPL card. If you're unsure of your PIN, call your local branch (a full listing of branches is available at: http://www.nypl.org/hours/) or call the Mid-Manhattan Library’s Registration Desk (212-576-0015).

To place a hold, begin by selecting CATALOGS on the NYPL homepage (http://www.nypl.org). Since all materials that circulate are in the LEO catalog, go to LEO. Click on LIBRARY CATALOG. Then, from the CHOOSE AN INDEX TO SEARCH pull-down menu, click on one of the options listed –(author’s) NAME, TITLE or another option listed and enter in the box an appropriate word or phrase. Click SEARCH and highlight your choice. Click SHOW DETAILS. Next, click PLACE HOLD and read the directions. It is only possible to reserve titles in the catalog that have circulating copies available or on order. If the computer allows you to place a hold, enter your barcode, then your PIN. Click SUBMIT BARCODE. Follow the instructions on subsequent pages. From the pull-down menu on PICKUP, select a branch and click FINISH.

By clicking on PATRON INFORMATION and then on HOLDS, you may see the status of your hold.

The basic procedures using LEOTELNET are the same. A full set of keyboard instructions are shown at the bottom of the screens (i.e., type C for copy status; type PH for Place Hold).

If there are no holds on the item, there is another way of having it held for you. After you have done a search in the LEO catalog and learned which NYPL branches have the item, you may call a branch that has it and request a shelf check. If the item is on the shelf, the branch can either hold it for you to pick up there or can send it to the NYPL location of your choice. Again, you will need your barcode number to process your request.

Sources:

New York Public Library Web site. Catalogs.
http://www.nypl.org/catalogs/index.html
Accessed August 24, 2001