Zip Books began as a pilot project in 2011, funded by an LSTA grant from the California State Library.

PALM SPRINGS — Zip Books, a new program, is now offered at the Palm Springs Public Library. This grant funded program provides library users with speedy access to books or audiobooks that are not available at the library.

A patron simply requests the item, the library purchases it from Amazon, and the book is shipped directly to the patron’s home. Zip Books are checked out to the patron like any other library item. When finished, the patron returns the item to the library—where it will be checked in and added to the collection, available for other patrons to use.

Because Zip Books is a user-driven program, the library collection becomes more closely matched to the needs of the local community, so it’s a win-win for everyone.

Zip Books began as a pilot project in 2011, funded by an LSTA grant from the California State Library. The program has proved to be extremely popular with libraries and library users throughout the state and has grown substantially over the past decade. In early 2022, the number of participating libraries expanded to include 89 jurisdictions.

“The Library is excited to be offering this type of service to our community,” said Jeannie Kays, Director of Library Services. “It is easy, efficient and a great opportunity to grow our collection and offer items our community wants.”

A Palm Springs Library card is required to utilize this program and the items, like other library items, are subject to loan time limits and other borrowing guidelines. More information and specific requirements of the program are available on the library’s web site at www.pslibrary.org.

The Palm Springs Public Library is located at 300 S. Sunrise Way, on the corner of Sunrise Way and Baristo Road. For more information about the Library call 760-322-READ (7323) or visit the Library’s website www.pslibrary.org.

Image Sources

  • PS-Library-800×568-1: Palm Springs Library