In order to prevent unauthorized use of library cards, starting on February 3, 2024, HCPL patrons will be required to use their Personal Identification Number (PIN) when using self-checkout machines, the Overdrive Digital Catalog, and the Libby app.
We at Harris County Public Library take your privacy and the security of your library records very seriously. Granted, the security of your library account is not as important as that of your social security number or your credit card accounts, but it is important. Think about it. Do you really want all your friends to know that you checked out books on bankruptcy, divorce, or other sensitive topics? Even if your check-out history has nothing you would not mind discussing publicly, you would not allow a stranger to check out books with your library card, would you? Of course not. The new PIN requirement aims to protect your privacy and security. It's that simple.
Your Personal Identification Number (PIN)
Your PIN is the 4-digit number you chose when creating your library account. If you know your PIN, you are all set. If you do not remember your PIN, you can reset it. The easiest and fastest way to reset your PIN is to do it yourself online. Please note that in order to do this, you will need to have an email address on file with the library so that we can send you a PIN reset link. If you have received hold notifications or other notices in the past from the library, chances are very good that we have your email on file. If you don't have an email on file with us, or you no longer have access to the one we have on file, you will need to call, visit, or email us.
3 Options for Resetting Your PIN
If you know your PIN, you are good to go! There's no need to reset it. But if you don't remember your PIN, you have three options:
- Reset your PIN online (Recommended). (You must have an email address on file with the library to reset your PIN online).
- Call or visit any HCPL branch location
- Email Us
How to Reset Your PIN Online
- Visit our website, hcpl.net
- Click on the dark blue “Log In/My HCPL” button in the top right corner.
- Click the green “Log In/Register” button at the top of the dropdown menu.
- Click the “Forgot Your PIN?” link. Remember, this option requires you to have a valid email address in your library account.
- The "Forgot Your PIN" link will take you to the PIN Reset page.
- Enter your library card number and click “Submit”.
- You will receive an email with the reset link at the email address we have on file for you. If you do not receive the email, please check your Spam or Junk folders. If you have trouble receiving the reset link, please email us or call your local Harris County Public Library branch for help.
- Click on the Reset your PIN link in the email.
- Type in your library card number and your new PIN, and then confirm your PIN in the appropriate boxes.
- Click Submit.
- You're all set! The next time you login to your HCPL account, you will use your new PIN.
Learn More About Your Library Account, Login, and PIN
Login & My Account FAQs
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PIN stands for Personal Identity Number. Your PIN is used to keep your library account secure. You will use it
- When accessing your account,
- When placing holds,
- When calling the library to get information about your account.
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Yes, you can. Log on to your account first, then click on My settings.
You can also use "Forgot Your PIN" feature to reset your PIN without logging in. See I forgot my PIN. What do I do?
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It’s the same. If you change your PIN and log in using the old system, or to any other system that uses your library card, you’ll need to use your new PIN.
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If you’re logging in for the first time, you’ll need your library card number or barcode, and your PIN. The barcode is the number on the back of your library card. PIN is normally 4 digits selected by you when you registered for a library card. If you’ve already logged in successfully, you have a username, so you can log in with the username or barcode. Contact your branch if the card number entered does not work.
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- Click on Log In/My Account on the upper right of your screen.
- Then click on the Log in/Register button
- Enter your library card number and PIN/password.
The first time you log in, you will be prompted to create a user name. After that, you will be able to log in with your user name and PIN.
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You can update your address, emails used for library notification and digital content notification, hold pick up location, and other account preferences. If you want to change the name on your account, you will need to visit any HCPL location with a current photo ID with the new name or name change documents. Library staff will change your name on your account. Please talk to a staff if you wish to change your birth month and year.
- Go to "Log In / My HCPL" on upper right and click on "My Settings"
- Log in if you have not done so.
- Use the left side menu to select the settings to update.
