Almost all materials in our library's Search Catalogue can be placed 'on hold.' We sometimes also refer to this process as "placing a request."
- When an item is requested, it means you've been placed in line for the next available copy of that item
- When an item is held for you or "on hold", it means the copy you have requested is now sitting on the Holds shelf in your branch of choice
To place a request:
Full desktop view
- Search for the item in our Search Catalogue. A "Place Hold" button will be shown beside the item if it is available for requests.
- If you are not already logged in, you will be asked to do so. You will need your library card and PIN to log in.
- The system will next ask you the name of the branch where you want to pick the item up. You can choose from any of our 20 locations and the book will be shipped there for pickup.
Mobile view
- Search for the item in the mobile version of our Search Catalogue.
- Look for the three dots that appear next to the item you would like to request, and tap the dots to see the Place Hold menu.
- If you are not already logged in, you will be asked to do so. You will need your library card and PIN to log in.
- The system will next ask you the name of the branch where you want to pick the item up. You can choose from any of our 20 locations and the book will be shipped there for pickup.
Important notes about holds/requests:
- There is no charge for this service
- You can see your requested items and holds that are ready for pick-up by logging in to My Account online
- You can have your requested item delivered to any of the 20 locations in our library system, including some locations with after-hours pickup (Smartlockers)
- You can change the branch of choice on any requested item, unless the item is already delivered to the pickup location (sitting on the holds shelf)
- Materials are delivered as quickly as possible, but we cannot guarantee a specific arrival date or time
- You will be notified when your item is ready for pick-up by phone or by email
- Once you are notified that an item is available to pick up you have 9 days, including weekends, to pick it up to borrow. This applies to both in-person pick-ups and the use of a Smart Locker.
- If you do not pick up your hold by the expiry date, you will be charged a Non-pickup of holds fee
- Please see the Winnipeg Public Library Borrowing Guide for complete information.