Can't find the book you want in our Library?
Get it mailed directly to you for free with
ZIP BOOKS
**Zip Books Returning Jan. 2, 2025!
Note to Kern County Library Zip Books Program Users:
Congratulations Kern County readers, you are showcasing your reading talents and have expended the funds for the Zip Books program for the 2023-2024 fiscal year—your commitment to supporting the program is truly inspiring!
The Zip Books program is currently on hiatus through summer 2024, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude for everyone’s who’s been a part of our journey.
Check in with us this fall when hopefully the funding will be back and available in September for the new 2024-2025 fiscal year.
Until then, please let us know how we can help you choose your new reading adventure.
What is the Zip Books delivery service?
Kern County residents with a valid Kern County library cards in good standing can request books that the Library does not own. Zip Books are shipped directly to their home from Amazon. When finished, the book is returned to the library and potentially added to the collection!
This project was supported in whole or in part by funding provided by the State of California, administered by the California State Library.
- Published print titles not in the Kern County Library’s collection (check the catalog!) Titles must be published older than 6 months but within the last two years.
- Titles that could reasonably be added to our library collection (check out our collection development policy here).
- Titles that are priced at $45 or less on Amazon (some exceptions may be made for higher priced items).
- Patron must have a valid Kern County Library card.
- Library account must be in good standing with the Library.
- Item must not be available in the Kern County Library catalog.
- Patrons may have 5 Zip Books checked out at a time. Zip Books must be returned before requesting another item, no more than 5 request per month.
- The cost of the item must be under $45 for books.
- Requests for Textbooks and study guides will not be accepted.
- Requests for eBook and audio-visual items will not be accepted.
You can return a Zip Book directly to library staff (tell them it’s a Zip Book!) or put it in a bag (labeled as a Zip Book) and use the book drop!
Zip Books need to be returned to the library before requesting more titles. We recommend returning them within a month. There are currently no late fees assessed for Zip Books.
- Zip Books are shipped directly from Amazon to the address you provide. Make sure the address you provide can receive packages.
- Sometimes, due to cost or availability, you may receive used books through this service. We will only order items listed as “good” condition or better.
- Due to grant requirements, this service will only allow us to use Amazon to purchase and send requested titles. No other vendors are allowed.
- We are only able to offer titles that ship from a location in the US.
- After reading, you need to return the book to the Library, where it may be added to the library collection!
Requesting a Zip Book is Easy!
