The Barrington Area Library offers a variety of ways for you and your family to borrow and return materials. (Including e-books and other downloadable materials!) It all begins with your BALibrary card.
Pick-Up Options:
You're welcome to stop in and browse the stacks, but you can also place holds on items in the catalog with your BALibrary card, and receive them via:
- Parking Lot Pick-Up;
- Borrow By Mail;
- Automated pick-up lockers in five convenient locations;
- At the Main Library, you may choose between indoor pick-up during Library hours, or 24/7 outdoor pick-up.
Return Options:
We also have eleven locations where you can return your materials. Find the one closest to you.
Homebound Delivery
Barrington Public Library District patrons who are temporarily homebound (30-day minimum), permanently disabled, or elderly and without transportation may request home delivery. Call 847-382-1300 ext. 3300 and ask for Homebound Delivery for more details. The Library uses regular mail delivery for this service.
Borrowing From Other Libraries:
Want something we don't currently have in our collections? Your Barrington Area Library card is valid at libraries across the state of Illinois.
In addition, items not owned by the Barrington Area Library may be requested through our Interlibrary Loan service.
This system is integrated with our online catalog, making it easier than ever for you to request items and manage your requests. Go to our online catalog. If our Library does not have what you need, change your search settings from "Search Barrington Area Library" to "Interlibrary Loan (WorldCat)."
Please keep in mind the following:
- The service is offered to all Barrington Area Library card holders.
- Most libraries will not loan new items (six months old or less).
- Digital items such as e-books may not be borrowed.
- Many libraries do not loan audiovisual materials.
- There is a limit of 10 items in process per card (this includes items that are in your possession).
- You will receive an email when the item arrives.
- Items will be held at your specified delivery location for seven days. Please note that there is a $5 fee for interlibrary loan items not picked up during the hold period.
- Due dates are determined by the lending library. Renewals are at the discretion of the lending library.
- Allow 7-10 days for an ILL item to be received.