Getting a Library Card
It’s quick and easy to sign up for a library card! Any Wisconsin resident over the age of 5 is welcome to get a free library card at PHPL. Simply bring a photo ID to the library to sign up. If the address on your ID is not current, you will also need to bring proof of your current address (for example, a checkbook, utility bill, etc.).
Children aged 5-17 must sign up with a parent or guardian. The library does not restrict access to any material by age; this responsibility rests with the parent(s) or legal guardian(s).
When you have a library card with PHPL, you can use it at all 24 public libraries in Waukesha and Jefferson Counties. You can also order books and movies from other CAFÉ libraries and have them sent to PHPL.
Checkouts & Renewals
The following is a summary of current Pauline Haass Public Library circulation policies. The complete policy is available online or at the library’s checkout and reference desks and includes information about loan periods, overdue fees, and replacement costs.
Loan Periods
- 3 weeks: most books and audiobooks
- 2 weeks: most new items
- 1 week: most DVDs, magazines, music CDs
- “Lucky Day” browsing collections have special loan periods and are marked as such.
Renewals
Most items can be renewed 3 times as long as no one else has requested it. Renewals can be made in person, by phone at 262-246-5180, online, or on the CAFÉ Libraries App.
Accessing Your Account
To access your account online or on the CAFÉ Libraries App, you will need your CAFÉ card number and PIN number (date of birth: mmddyyyy). Please note: If you are unable to log in, please call the library at 262-246-5180 during open hours. Our librarians are happy to help!
Requests/Holds
If the title you want is owned by any of the CAFÉ libraries, you can request it by placing a hold. Visit the catalog or the CAFÉ Libraries App and search for the title you want. Once you find the item, click the “Place a Hold” option on the right of the screen, log in with your library card, and submit your request. We will notify you as soon as the item becomes available for you. You can also ask a librarian to place a hold for you.
If you can’t find what you are looking for in the catalog, ask a librarian. We can place Interlibrary Loan requests through WISCAT, the statewide database for Wisconsin libraries.
Regardless of where the item comes from, there is no charge to you. So, if you don’t find what you’re looking for on our shelves, be sure to ask!