Library by Mail
Our Library by Mail service provides library materials to residents of Tompkins County who are physically unable to visit the Library. Patrons registered with the Library by Mail service may receive up to seven (7) items at a time delivered by the US Postal Service to their residence.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Who is eligible for this program?
To be eligible for Library by Mail, you must meet all three of the following criteria:
- Live within the boundaries of Tompkins County
- Possess or be willing to sign up for a Tompkins County Public Library card or a library card from another library in Tompkins County
- Unable to get to the library
Typical qualifiers may include those:
- Temporarily or permanently homebound and/or in a convalescent home
- Concerned and/or at risk due to the current COVID-19 pandemic.
- Experiencing difficulty getting to the library due to a disability or mobility issues
How do I sign up?
Complete the online form, email LBM@tcpl.org or call 607-272-4557.
How do I request materials?
Books, audiobooks, DVDs, CDs, and magazines can be requested by placing a hold through our online catalog or by calling 607-272-4556. Ask us about our digital library!
How many items can I borrow at a time? How long can I keep the items?
Seven (7) items at a time may be borrowed for three weeks.
What if I'm late returning items? What if items are lost or damaged?
TCPL does not charge fines for late items. TCPL does not charge for lost or damaged items.
Who pays for postage?
We do! Funding for this program has been provided by a generous grant from Cornell University.
Do I need a Tompkins County Public Library card to participate?
Yes. If you don‘t have one, you can fill out the online card application.
Upcoming Events
Friends of TCPL Fall Book Sale at 509 Esty Street
Friends of TCPL Fall Book Sale at 509 Esty Street
The Friends of Tompkins County Public Library will hold the annual Fall Book Sale over three long weekends in October, beginning Saturday, October 12, at 509 Esty St, Ithaca.
Makerspace Open Hours
Drop-in open hours, no registration required. Come for a short tour, or stay and work on a project - we have lots of art supplies and ideas to get you making!
LEGO Build Night for Families
TCPL invites families to a weekly LEGO build night! Buckets of LEGO will be provided for participants to borrow for their builds.
Pumpkin Carving & Decorating Party
Pumpkin Carving & Decorating Party
All ages are invited to a pumpkin carving and decorating party! Pumpkins and all decorating supplies will be provided by the Library while supplies last. We will meet outdoors near the Creek Walk, behind the Library.
LGBTQIA+ Youth Group
We're here for you. Lesbian, gay, bi, trans, queer, questioning, not sure, trying to figure things out? Want to hang in a safe and supportive space or need someone to talk about sexuality, sexual orientation, or gender?
Makerspace Open Hours
Drop-in open hours are back! Registration is no longer required.
Makerspace One-on-One
What do you want to make?
Story + Craft
Story + Craft is our weekly reading + creating event for children! Join us for a read-aloud, followed by art-making or a guided craft. Best for children 5 and up, but younger are welcome with an adult to assist.