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Self-Service Holds

Self-service holds shelves

Visit the west lobby to pick up and check out your holds

Our hold shelves are located just inside the library's west entrance for quick and easy pickup.  As soon as you're notified your holds are ready, you can stop in to pick them up, but make sure to check them out before you go—your holds are not automatically checked out to you

How to use Self-Service Holds

1. Place one or more items on hold.

Holds provide a quick and easy way for you to get library materials. You can place holds online or call us at 847-272-6224. See all of our holdable items.

2. Wait to be notified that your hold is in.

As soon as you are notified your holds are ready, you can stop by to pick them up and check them out. Your holds will remain on the Self-Service Holds shelves for 7 days after the notification is sent. You can pick up holds during our open hours (Mon-Thurs: 9am-9pm; Fri: 9am-6pm; Sat: 9am-5pm; Sunday: 1-5pm.)

3. Pick up your hold items from the Hold shelves near the library's west entrance.

Your items will be labeled with the first four letters of your last name, your first initial, and the last four digits of your library card number. 

4. Remember to check out your holds before you leave.

Your hold items on the shelves have not been checked out to you in advance. You'll need to use your library card to check out your holds at one of our self-checkout machines, use our app's self-checkout feature, or visit the Welcome Desk to check out your items.  

Need a bag?

You can check out a canvas bag from the bag stand near the shelves. Just place the bag on the self-checkout machine's scanner with your items when you check out. And when you're done with it, you can return it in the lobby's return slot or in the outdoor bookdrops.

What should I do if I can't come into the library?

We can deliver your hold items to your car if you cannot enter the building. To use our Full-Service Holds service, please drive around the building to the west entrance and park in either of the two designated spots. Once you are parked, please call us at 847-272-6224, and library staff will bring your hold items to your car.

We also offer delivery and pick up of library materials for Northbrook Library card holders who are confined to their residence due to age, disability, illness, or other mobility issues. Learn more about our Home Delivery Service.

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