Frequently Asked Questions

Visiting the Library

How do I get to the Library?

The Library is located at 20 Jesup Road in Westport, alongside the Saugatuck River and south of the Post Road. There is a map and directions on our contact page

Where can I park?

There are a number of places to park when visiting the Library. Click here to view a printable map of downtown parking locations available.

What are the Library's hours?

Main Library
Monday - Thursday: 9 am - 9 pm
Friday: 9 am - 6 pm
Saturday: 9 am - 5 pm
Sunday: 1-5 pm
Library Café
Monday - Friday: 10 am - 5:30 pm
Saturday: 9 am - 4:30 pm
Sunday: 1 pm - 4:30 pm

Using the Library

How do I get a Library card?

Westport residents may register at the Library or online. You may get a Library card at the Circulation Desk or in the Children’s Library. You will be asked to provide proof of residence (driver’s license, lease, etc.). Residents of other Connecticut towns may borrow from the Library’s collection with a current library card from their hometown library. If you have any questions, send an email to [email protected] or call 203.291.4805.

How do I ask a librarian a question?

You can email our staff at [email protected] or call 203.291.4840. For the Children’s Library staff, email [email protected] or call 203.291.4810. Or you can submit a form online.

How do I access the digital collection?

Download ebooks, audiobooks, music, magazines, movies and TV with one of our Apps! Click here to get started.

What you will need:
• A Westport Library Card in good standing
• A device or computer to listen to the audiobooks
• Access to the Internet

How do I find a good book?

Browse the Library staff’s recommendations on the homepage for good books, DVDs, music, and audiobooks. Check out NoveList for readalikes and browse by genre.  Find the NYT Bestsellers in our catalog.

How do I access digital services if I don't live in Westport?

Out-of-state residents who do not work in Westport and residents of other Connecticut towns may purchase a Westport Library card which allows access to the same privileges and services as Westport residents. With a Westport Library card, you can access special databases remotely, as well as in the Library (Grants and Foundation Center, Morningstar, Ancestry.com and the Lexis part of LexisNexis is only available in the Library). You can also use the card to download ebooks without charge from Freading or 3M Cloud Library, and free music from Freegal. The annual cost of obtaining a Westport Library card is $200 for individuals and $400 for families. For more information, send an email to [email protected] or call 203.291.4805.

How do I receive email about my account?

The Library has upgraded to a more efficient, easier-to-use catalog system, Polaris, which will enable users to receive email notices directly from the Library, rather than through the third-party service known as Elf.

Card holders are requested to supply email addresses to the Library to allow for a seamless transition to the new system. Providing or updating email addresses can be done in person, over the phone or through the existing online catalog.

How long can I check out an item?

  • Express Books - 10 Days
  • All other books 3 weeks
  • Express DVDs - 1 Day or if you return it in the drop before we open on the second day then no fines
  • We have 3 Day DVDs, 1 week DVDs and 3 week DVDs – most TV Shows are 3 weeks
  • Audiobooks - 3 Weeks
  • Magazines are 1 Week
  • Music CDs are always 3 Weeks

How do I renew an item?

  1. Go to My Account
  2. Enter your library card barcode number leaving no spaces (or username). Then type in the last four digits of your telephone number. Click on Login.
  3. A list of items checked out on your library card appears.
  4. Check the box for each item you wish to renew.
  5. Click on the “Renew” button. The new due date will appear on the screen. If you have any questions or problems while renewing materials, call 203.291.4805 or send an email to [email protected] requesting assistance.

How do I reserve a computer?

While in the Library, use your library card to log onto any available public computer. To reserve computer time, use the reservation station on the Riverwalk Level near the printer. Reservations are accepted for the same day only. In the Children’s Library, see a staff member. For more information, email the Reference staff at [email protected].

How do I reserve a meeting room?

Various size meeting rooms are available at the Library for community use, and for individuals or small groups. You may reserve a room by visiting our booking site: https://westportlibrary.org/book-a-room/

How do I sign up for eNews?

We offer weekly eNews on a variety of topics. Please choose as many as you would like. Enter your email address in the form at the bottom of this page.

How do I use WiFi in the library?

Free WiFi access is available throughout the Library building in addition to the picnic table area and parking lot by joining the "WLPublic" network with no password. Find out more.

Does the Library have Proctoring Services?

The Westport Library is pleased to offer proctoring services for patrons who need to take off-site exams. A contribution of $25 for this service is requested. Click here to learn more!

Getting Involved with the Library

How do I support the Library?

There are many ways to contribute to the Library, including the Annual Appeal, memorial and tribute gifts, gifts of securities, Book Bucks, and more. Visit our support page.

How do I donate materials?

Book donations can be brought directly to the Book Donation Center in the Library’s Upper Parking Lot at 20 Jesup Road.  Items can be brought during regular Library hours.

For more information on book donations and book sales, please contact Westport Book Sale Ventures: 203-952-0070 or at https://www.westportbooksaleventures.org/

You can also visit their nonprofit book shop, located across Jesup Green from the Library, where you can find high quality gently used and antiquarian books, vintage vinyl records, and more.

To volunteer: [email protected] 

How do I volunteer at the Library?

Volunteers help the Library in many ways, from book sales to art openings to special programs. Find out more.

How do I find employment opportunities?

Employment opportunities at the Library are posted on the careers page. You may also fill out an application for employment at the Library’s Circulation Desk.
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