Frequently Asked Questions
How do I search for books, movies, music and more in the catalog?
You can use either “Find library books, music, movies and more,” by clicking in the white box or “Advanced Search” to make a more detailed search. Click on How do I Search the Catalog for more in depth instructions.
- Find library books, music, movies and more is a simple keyword search accessible from any page on the website. Enter a few significant words or “keywords” from your title, subject, etc. in the white box and then click "go". Your list of results will appear sorted by relevance. The number of results is displayed above your list.
- Click on a Tab, such as Books, and a drop down box appears preloaded with that category. Your search will now automatically refine based on that category.
- Click on “Advanced Search,” to the right of "go", to access the Advanced Search page. “Advanced Search” supports advanced keyword; browse searching; and other types of searching. Want to know more about Advanced Search, click on How to Use Advanced Search.
How do I find articles?
Click on the orange “Articles” tab. You can then enter a keyword search in the text box above “Queens Library Recommends.” Click on “Advanced Search,” below the text box if you want to combine search terms or choose databases by topic and/or format. Click here if you want to know more about How do I Find an Article.
What is the difference between “My Account” and “My Queens Library”?
“My Account” gives you access to your library account using your library card number and four-digit PIN to:
- View items checked out
- View fees
- Renew items
- View or cancel items placed on request
- Change your PIN.
“My Queens Library” gives you a personal My Queens Library page, where you set username and password, and can:
- Set your preferred language.
- Choose your local library.
- Keep a list of upcoming library events.
- View Queens Library’s Recommended Reading List.
- View your library account status (by adding your library card and PIN to the Edit Preferences area.)
Why is it important to log off?
Each time you finish using either My Account or My Queens Library, you should log out for security reasons. If you do not log out, other users may be able to view or change the information. For additional security, it is recommended that you also close your web browser.
Can I request a PIN on-line?
I've forgotten my PIN. How do I get a new PIN?
In order to protect an individual's privacy, customers are required to go to a Queens Library location to obtain a PIN (Personal Identification Number). Customers should be prepared to show their library card or an appropriate piece of identification (ID). For more information about approved types of ID, see the Get A Library Card section.
Can I change my PIN on-line?
Yes, you can. (However, in the case of a lost or forgotten PIN you are required to go to a Queens Library location to obtain a new PIN. Please bring your library card or other appropriate ID.)
- Click on "My Account" and login to your account
- Click on “Manage Account” and “Change my PIN”
- Enter your current PIN once and new PIN twice
- Click on the “Change PIN” button
Please note: If you have a My Queens Library membership and have gone into the "Edit personal information" to enter your library card number and PIN, you will need to re-enter your PIN (in My Queens Library) once you have changed it within My Account. Changing the PIN in My Account does not automatically change it in My Queens Library.
How do I sign up for “My Queens Library”?
You can click here to "Register now for a Web Membership" or choose to register once you click on “My Queens Library” at the top right side of the site.
Is my password for “My Queens Library” and “My Account” the same?
No. The password for “My Queens Library” may contain both letters and numbers, whereas your “My Account” PIN can only be a four-digit number.
What if I forget my screen name and/or password for “My Queens Library”?
You can click here: "Forgot your screen name?" or "Forgot your password?" and then follow the directions on either screen or simply go to the “My Queens Library” page and click on these links which are located to the right of either the screen name or password boxes.
How do I place a request for a title?
Go to Place a Request for a Book in the "How do I..." menu.
How do I find information about Queens Library fees?
Click “Get a Library Card” in the “How do I…” menu .
Click “Extended Use Fees.”
Where do I find the hours, address, and phone number for a single library?
On the left, scroll down to Hours & Locations. Select the library from the drop down list. Follow the link to get directions and more information about the library.
Where do I find a list of library locations and hours?
On the left, scroll down to Find A Queens Library. Click on “All Libraries.”
How do I renew my materials without going into the library?
Materials may be renewed by telephone 24/7.
Materials may also be renewed online 24/7 at MyAccount.
You will need your 4-digit PIN to renew by telephone or online.
You can also call any library during their hours of operation to have a staff member help you with renewals and account questions.
How do I access the Research Databases?
Click on the Research Databases link on the left hand side or from the Article Links after you click the Articles tab.
How do I access Technology How-To’s?
Click “Instruction & Classes” in the Your Community section
Click the link for Basic Computer Skills
Click “Technology How-To Tutorials”
How do I find things on the new site?
Please use the “Sitemap” to quickly and easily locate things on the new website.
How can I print something off the Website without part of the text being cut off?
Click “Print this page” on the top right hand of the screen to get a printer-friendly version.
Can I update my email address or home address on line?
At this time, you cannot update your email or home address on line. Instead, please go to the Customer Service or Circulation desk at any Queens Library to update this information.
I request many books and lose track of the request dates. Is there a way to track request dates?
The first time you request an item, you are notified of the placed date and expiration date of the request. We recommend you print out this sheet for your records. Otherwise, log into My Account and you'll see when the Request Expires. The Placed Date is not shown; you need to calculate 90 days prior since this is how long requests are kept in the system.
For additional frequently asked questions about your account, click here.