Wi-Fi at the library
Multnomah County Library is pleased to offer wi-fi internet access at all library locations for users with wi-fi-enabled devices such as laptops or smart phones.
Public meeting rooms policy
Eighteen libraries offer free use of meeting room space for meetings and programs that serve an educational, cultural, civic or recreational purpose. Meetings and programs held in library meeting rooms must be free, open and of potential interest to the general public.
Suggest a purchase
Is there a book, movie, CD or magazine that you want the library to buy for the collection? Your suggestions help us keep the collections relevant to our community.
Computers, software and equipment
Computers and equipment that patrons can use at the library.
Educator library cards
Teachers, families who homeschool and other educators in the community can get library cards with extra holds, no late fines and more.
Rockwood makerspace
The makerspace is a collaborative learning environment at Rockwood Library with an emphasis on middle and high school learners. The space provides access to innovative technology, equipment, software and supportive mentors
Chat with a librarian
Multnomah County librarians collaborate with librarians in other places to welcome your questions on any topic, 24 hours a day. Someone is always online.
MCL staff chat hour:
Mon - Sat: 9 am - 5 pm
Sun: 12 pm - 5 pm
Chat staffed by other libraries outside of these hours
My Discovery Pass
My Discovery Pass is a partnership between Multnomah County Library and other local organizations to offer free educational and cultural experiences to Multnomah County Library cardholders.
Using Cell-Ed
Learn English, basic skills and more on your phone with Cell-Ed. All you need is a cell phone (basic or smart), but you can also connect with a tablet or computer that has internet access.
Languages at the Library
The library serves community members coming from many cultures and countries. Dedicated bilingual library staff bring language and cultural expertise in Chinese, Russian, Spanish and Vietnamese to the following services:
Get a library card
How to use Northstar Online Learning
Learn how to use Northstar Online Learning for online tutorials and assessments on Basic Computer Skills, Internet Email, Windows and more.
Tutoring for adult learners
The library offers one-on-one and small group tutoring to help patrons achieve their learning goals.
Interlibrary loan
Can't find what you're looking for at Multnomah County Library? Try interlibrary loan. It may be possible to borrow books, audiobooks, microfilm and copies of articles from another library system.
VRI (Video Remote Interpretation)
Virtual Remote Interpretation (VRI) is a service that allows deaf patrons who use American Sign Language (ASL) access to remote interpretation. The library has live video sign language interpretation at Central, Gresham, Hillsdale and Rockwood libraries.
Sign language interpreters and assistive listening devices
This listening system helps people hear better during library programs and events. It filters the sound to emphasize the voices and transmits it to a receiver you wear around your neck.
Homebound services
Services for patrons who cannot make it into the library
Accessible computer options
All library locations include accessible computer stations including Jaws and ZoomText. Lapboards, large trackball mice and large keyboards can be requested from a staff person.