FAQ
Do I need a new library card?
Yes. Irvine Public Library is a new system, independent of the OCPL system. Learn how to get your IPL card.
Will my current OCPL library card still work?
Yes, it will still work at all OCPL locations, including during the library closures. 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.
Will I be able to request OCPL items for pick-up at Irvine Public Library locations? Will I be able to return OCPL items to Irvine Public Library locations?
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.
Within IPL, users will be able to 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. The Katie Wheeler branch will open in early 2026.
For items not in the IPL collection, users may request an interlibrary loan from outside of Irvine or may suggest IPL purchase the item of interest.
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. IPL is building a LoT collection that will be available when the libraries open in August.
Will the programs at the Irvine libraries continue, and will they remain free to the community?
The City will continue to offer library programs, 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 is working to build a volunteer program that includes opportunities for both teens and adults. Volunteer applications will be available on our website starting Monday, August 11.
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 may take 3 - 5 weeks. You may wish to reach out to the owning library in the meantime.
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.
Why is the City of Irvine taking over library services from the County?
The City of Irvine is transitioning 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.
What is the timeline for the transition?
Through March 31, 2025: All libraries have full services and hours under Orange County management. April 1-May 15: The County reduce hours and services at Heritage Park and University Park to start preparing for the transfer.
May 16-June 30: The County closes Heritage Park and University Park entirely to complete the transfer.
July 1: Irvine assumes the Heritage Park and University Park Libraries.
July 1: The Katie Wheeler Library closes in preparation for its transfer from County to City operations.
August 4, 2025: The City of Irvine anticipates opening Heritage Park and University Park libraries to the community.
What will happen to the 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, and anticipates opening the branch in early 2026.
What are the closest library options for us during the Heritage Park, University Park, and Katie Wheeler Library closures?
There are other public libraries located close to the City of Irvine including the OCPL Tustin Public Library branch, the Newport Beach Public Library, and the Huntington Beach Public Library. Residents of the State of California may apply for a free library card to access materials and services at any of these libraries before, during, and after the transition. To learn how to apply for a library card at any of these libraries, please visit their website or call the County/City library directly.
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.
Future plans
What changes can residents expect with the new City-run library system?
Residents can expect enhanced programming, expanded collections tailored to local needs, improved digital resources, and a strong focus on community engagement. We are also planning for immediate improvements to the Heritage Park and University Park branches including new carpet, paint, and furniture.
What will be the role of the Friends of the Library (FOL) and the bookstores?
The City values and respects the support the FOL organizations provide to Irvine libraries. No changes are anticipated for the Friends groups or their bookstores.
Will there be a library in my district?
The City of Irvine will be working to identify the library needs in the community, including the opportunity to expand the number of libraries throughout the city. Stay tuned for more opportunities to get involved and provide input with this process!
How can I stay informed and provide input?
he City will provide regular updates through community meetings, the City’s website, and library newsletters. Residents are encouraged to participate in public forums, surveys, and outreach events to help shape the future of Irvine Public Library. Sign up for library updates here.
What changes can residents expect with the new City-run library system?
Residents can expect enhanced programming, expanded collections tailored to local needs, improved digital resources, and a strong focus on community engagement. We are also planning for immediate improvements to the Heritage Park and University Park branches including new carpet, paint, and furniture.
What will be the role of the Friends of the Library (FOL) and the bookstores?
The City values and respects the support the FOL organizations provide to Irvine libraries. No changes are anticipated for the Friends groups or their bookstores.
Will there be a library in my district?
The City of Irvine will be working to identify the library needs in the community, including the opportunity to expand the number of libraries throughout the city. Stay tuned for more opportunities to get involved and provide input with this process!
How can I stay informed and provide input?
The City will provide regular updates through community meetings, the City’s website, and library newsletters. Residents are encouraged to participate in public forums, surveys, and outreach events to help shape the future of Irvine Public Library. Sign up for library updates here.
