Where is the Library located?
The Downey City Library is located a 11121 Brookshire Avenue in Downey. We are just north of the intersection of Brookshire Avenue and Firestone Boulevard between the Downey Theater and City Hall.
For a map and driving directions please click here.
When is the Library open?
Monday – Thursday: 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Friday and Saturday: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Sunday 1:00 – 5:00 from mid-September to mid-June
How do I get a Library card?
Your library card is free with proof of your current California address (i.e., a current California Driver’s License or California Identification card). Children under the age of 18 must have a parent or legal guardian present when obtaining a card. There is a fee of $1.00 to replace a lost library card. You will need to present a picture ID with current address and complete a library card application at the Front Desk in the Library. An application form is available on-line.
How long may I borrow materials?
The loan period for all materials except DVDs, test books, and magazines is 21 days. DVDs, test books, and magazines have a loan period of 7 days.
What if I return my books late?
A charge of $.15 per day, per item is placed on your card if an item is overdue. The library staff will alert you at the Checkout Desk, when you have outstanding fines and bills. You may inquire about outstanding fines on your card at any time by calling our Automated Telephone Renewal and Notification System line at (562) 869-5723. You can also check your account by clicking here.
I’ve lost my library card. What do I do?
A library card is a lot like a credit card. It allows you to use library materials and holds you liable for lost and overdue materials. If you lose your library card, immediately call or come into the Library and speak with library staff. They will void your lost library card number and issue you a new card. There is a $1.00 replacement fee for a lost or stolen library card.
Help! My dog ate my book!
If you lose or damage library materials, you will be required to pay for the replacement cost of the item(s) and a $5.00 processing fee.
Can I return my books after the Library closes?
There are two outside book drops that are open when the Library is closed.
What is a PIN and how do I get one?
A PIN is a personal identification number that is the equivalent to a password for accessing your online record. Your assigned PIN is the last four (4) digits of your phone number. Speak to library staff if you wish to change your PIN.
Can I use my Los Angeles County Library card at the Downey City Library?
You will need a Downey City Library or Santa Fe Springs Library card to check out materials or use the computer lab.
How can I renew library materials that are due soon?
All three-week loan items may be renewed for an additional loan period with the exception of items on hold for another person. 7-day materials are not renewable. Renewals can be done any day prior to the due date, and will extend your due date three weeks from the date of renewal. You can bring the material to the Library for renewal, renew your material via the Automated Telephone Renewal and Notification System by calling (562)869-5723 and following the prompts. You can also renew your materials online. You will need to know your library card barcode number and your PIN for online renewals.
Can the Library’s catalog and/or other databases be accessed from my home or office?
The library catalog can be searched via the library website from your home or office computer. Use the “Catalog and Databases” tab on the navigation bar. You will need a Downey City Library card barcode to access the on-line databases outside the Library.
What does it mean when I request an item from the catalog?
If the item is checked out (meaning someone else already has the item) or is owned by Santa Fe Springs Library, by requesting the item you are putting yourself on the waiting list for it when it comes in. When the item is available, it is held at the Checkout Desk and you are notified to come pick it up. If the item is owned by Downey Library and it is checked in, you need to call the Adult Information Desk at (562) 904-7360, ext. 132 and ask a librarian to hold the item for you. If you have any questions about your request, please feel free to call a librarian at the Adult Information Desk.
Does the library offer any programs?
The Library offers programs for all ages. You can find a list of programs on the homepage or by clicking on the Calendar of Events link on the Homepage.
Does the Library offer any classes?
The Library offers computer classes. You can find a list of the computer classes being offered by clicking on the Community Services Guide found under the Library Services tab. You can register for a library computer class either on line @ www.downeylibrary.org, in person at the Adult Information Desk, or by calling (562) 904-7360, ext. 132.
Where can I get tax forms?
A book of reproducible tax forms, which may be copied for a fee, is available at the Library.
Does the Library accept gift books and magazines?
The Library welcomes donations of money or library materials that enhance and increase the usefulness of its collection.
For your convenience, materials may be left in the book bin marked "Donations" which is on your left as you enter the Library. If you would like a receipt, please ask for one at the Checkout Desk when you make your donation. We are not able to pick up donations from patrons' homes. However, if you will need help getting the books from your car to the Library, or need other assistance, please make an appointment with the Senior Library Assistant at (562) 904-7360 x119. If you would like to make a donation in memory or in honor of a loved one, please contact Library Administration at (562) 904-7360 x110 so that commemorative bookplates may be placed in each book. We greatly appreciate your generosity.
Do you have computers that the public can use?
The Library offers 18 computers for public use in the computer lab. There is no charge to use the computers. Computer users need a Downey City Library card which will give you 60 minutes per day of computer access. We also have black and white printers available, at a cost of $.15 per page. The computers have Microsoft Office XP suite of software loaded, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Publisher, and Access (all 2003). The computers also can read and burn CDs as well as offering available USB ports and headphone ports.
Does the Library have copiers?
There are three copy machines in the Library. Two are black and white copy machines and one offers color copying. The cost is $ .15 per page for black & white copies and $.75 per page for color copies.
Does the Library have a fax machine for public use?
The Library does not offer fax service.
What about a typewriter?
A coin-operated typewriter is available to the public and is located in the Magazine Room/Computer Lab area. The cost is $.50 per 20 minutes.
How do I sign up to volunteer at the library?
You can start by asking about volunteering at any of the service desks: Checkout, Adult Information Desk, or Children’s Desk.
Does the Library offer WiFi/Wireless?
The Library is currently examining issues related to going wireless. We hope to make wireless access in the Library available as soon as possible.
