Frequently Asked Questions

Use the SearchOhio and OhioLINK catalog to borrow millions of books, CDs, and DVDs from more than 140 Ohio public and academic libraries.

This statewide delivery network is free and easy to use with most CHPL library cards.

The Cincinnati & Hamilton County Public Library's staff is here to help. Ask a Librarian 24 hours a day. 

There are a few factors that may result in an unsuccessful SearchOhio or OhioLINK request.  

First, ensure that you have an eligible Cincinnati & Hamilton County Public Library card type. The following card types can be used for statewide borrowing: Unlimited, Limited – No Media, Non-Resident, Non-Resident – No Media, and Honorary.

Next, check that your Cincinnati & Hamilton County Public Library account is in good standing. Common reasons that your request may be blocked include if you have: over $10 in fees, you have an item that is 12 or more days overdue, or there is more than one item that is overdue on your Cincinnati & Hamilton County Public Library account.

While CHPL no longer charges late fines for overdue items, you are responsible for charges associated with lost or damaged items borrowed from another library system through SearchOhio and OhioLINK.

Replacement fees are billed for any item that isn't returned within 30 days of the due date:

SearchOhio: $25 

OhioLINK: $125 

Books and materials borrowed through SearchOhio or OhioLINK can be returned to any CHPL location. The staff at the Cincinnati & Hamilton County Public Library will ensure that the items are returned to the library system that owns the materials.

SearchOhio:  

• Books and other print materials, audiobooks, and CDs can be borrowed for 21 days and renewed up to three times 

• DVDs can be borrowed for seven days and renewed up to three times 

OhioLINK:  

• Books and other print materials can be borrowed for 21 days and renewed up to six times 

• Media (audiobooks, CDs, and DVDs) can be borrowed for seven days with up to three renewals

You will receive a notification when your item is ready for pickup through the method listed on your CHPL library card account (email, phone, or text message).

You may update your contact preference any time on CHPL.org.

You may request a variety of materials, including books, audiobooks, CDs, and DVDs, from SearchOhio and OhioLINK's partner libraries.

Please note that eBooks and eAudiobooks are not available through these services.