What Is Books-By-Mail?

Books-By-Mail is a unique service provided by the Birmingham Public Library and the Public Libraries in Jefferson County. This service is for library users who are unable to visit a library due to a permanent or temporary disability.

• Participation is limited to Jefferson County residents.
• You do not need a library card.
• You may have 4 items checked out for 4 weeks.
• You do not have to pay postage to return books.

How Does It Work?

Books-By-Mail can send large print books or books on CD. You can choose your reading interests, and we'll mail you the books in a returnable library bag. Have a special request? Let us know. When you're done with the books, mail them back. No postage necessary!

How Do I Return Books?

• Place your materials in the returnable library mailing bag and zip the bag.
• Turn the mailing label over so that the library's address is showing.
• Give the mailing bag to your postal person.
• No postage is necessary.

How Do I Apply?

• Fill out the online form to request an application or call 205-226-3758.
• You will receive an application in the mail.
• Complete (fill out) the application and return it (postage free).

Will I Receive a Library Card?

Books-By-Mail is a limited service program. You won't receive a library card unless you apply for a regular library card. Contact us to find out more.

Whom Do I Contact For More Information?

• Call Books-By-Mail: 205-226-3758 (Monday-Friday 9 a.m.-5 p.m.)
• Email: books-by-mail@cobpl.org
• Address: Books-By-Mail, 2100 Park Place, Birmingham, AL 35203-2744

Additional Resources Available

• Alabama Regional Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped
  (This service brings special format reading materials, playback equipment and other library resources to qualifying users.)
• Borrow Ebooks and Audiobooks with a Library Card.