FAQ

Irvine Public Library System FAQs

Do I need a new library card?
Yes. Irvine Public Library (IPL)  is a new system, independent of the OCPL system. Learn how to get your IPL card.

I have an Irvine Public Library card, but I forgot my PIN. What should I do?

Your PIN is usually the last 4 digits of the phone number associated with your library account. Please email us at irvinepubliclibrary@cityofirvine.org if you need further assistance.

Will my current OCPL library card still work?
Your OCPL card still works at all OCPL locations. Library users may register for an IPL card for use at Irvine Public Library locations and maintain their OCPL card for use at OCPL locations.

Can I request OCPL items for pick-up at Irvine Public Library locations? Can I return OCPL items to Irvine Public Library locations?

No, these are two separate library systems. Within Irvine Public Library, users can request items from any IPL branch be moved to another branch for convenient pickup. IPL items may be returned to any IPL location, which currently includes Heritage Park and University Park Libraries. The Katie Wheeler branch will open in early 2026.

OCPL library users can request OCPL items to be delivered to any OCPL branch, including the nearby Tustin Library. OCPL items should be returned to an OCPL location.

What if Irvine Public Library doesn’t have the item I want?
For items not in the IPL collection, fill out the Suggest a Purchase form and we will make every effort to fulfill your request.

If the item you’re seeking is rare, out of print, or more suited to an academic library collection, you may wish to request an interlibrary loan from outside of Irvine. Learn more.

What if I accidentally return an item from another library to an Irvine Public Library location?
IPL staff will make every effort to ensure the item is returned to its owning library. This process may take up to 3 - 5 weeks. You may wish to reach out to IPL and the owning library in the meantime.

Will Irvine have digital books available?
Yes. Visit IPL's Digital Library for access to ebooks, audiobooks, digital magazines, and more.

Will you offer a Library of Things?
Yes. A Library of Things (LoT) is a lendable collection of non-traditional items, usually tailored to community needs and interests. LoT collections that have been established around the country include everything from seeds to musical instruments to telescopes. Irvine's LoT collection is growing rapidly. Learn more about Irvine's LoT collection. 

What kinds of programs does Irvine Public Library offer? 
Irvine Public Library offers a wide range of library programs and events, free of charge, for all ages. Visit the Library Events page for details.

How can I volunteer for the library?
IPL is grateful for community involvement and offers volunteer opportunities for teens and adults. Learn more.

 

 

Why did the City of Irvine take over library services from the County?
The City of Irvine transitioned library operations from the Orange County Public Library (OCPL) system to establish a City-run library system. This decision allows Irvine to tailor library services to better meet the needs of residents and expand programming, collections, and services. Read more.

What was the timeline for the transition?

April 1–May 15, 2025: The County of Orange reduced hours and services at the Heritage Park and University Park branches to start preparing for the transition.

May 16–June 30, 2025: The County of Orange closed Heritage Park and University Park entirely to complete the transfer.

July 1, 2025: The City of Irvine assumed the Heritage Park and University Park Libraries.

July 1, 2025: The Katie Wheeler Library closed in preparation for its transfer from County to City operations.

August 3, 2025: Irvine Public Library celebrated its grand opening at Heritage Park and University Park Libraries, with its first full day of operations on August 4. 

What’s happening with Katie Wheeler Library? 
Because the Katie Wheeler Library is located on County-owned property, it was not included in the initial transition agreement. However, responding to an outpouring of community interest in maintaining Katie Wheeler as part of the Irvine system, the City Council approved a three-year lease agreement for that site.

The City of Irvine will gain access to the building starting January 1, 2026. Katie Wheeler Library is anticipated to open as part of Irvine Public Library system in early 2026.

How is the transition being funded? 
The transition is funded through a combination of budget allocations and tax transfer agreements with the County. Initial costs, including staffing and operational expenses, will be covered by an appropriation from the City's Asset Management Plan, with repayment from future library funds.

What's next for Irvine Public Library? 
Now that library management has been transferred from the County of Orange to the City of Irvine, the City has the opportunity to establish a world-class public library system. Learn about our next steps. 

Will there be a library in my district?
The City of Irvine is working to identify the library needs in the community, including the opportunity to expand the number of libraries throughout the city. Irvine Public Library is conducting a survey now through November 16 to collect feedback on the future of library services, spaces, and programs. Please take the online survey.

How can I stay informed and provide input?
The City provides regular updates through the City’s website and digital newsletter. Sign up for library updates here. Residents are encouraged to provide feedback directly to staff or by sending an email to irvinepubliclibrary@cityofirvine.org.