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Digital Library Quick Start

Have you seen our Digital Library Wallpaper in your neighborhood? If you need a quick how-to, start here to learn how to access our digital downloads on your device.

Step 1

Step 1: If you have a smartphone, stand in front of the wall and scan the QR codes on the wallpaper to go directly to that title. If you don't have a QR code reader, you can download one from your app store.

Not all QR code readers work the same, and some work better with the codes than others. We've found two that we know work well with the public domain titles: QR Code Reader by Scan (for Android) and Red Laser (for iPhone).

Step 2

Step 2: Enter your SAPL card number. If you don't have a SAPL library card yet, stop by any of our locations to get one! In the meantime, you can still download eBooks from our public domain collection. Just look for the blue book on the second shelf titled "Try This One". Scan the QR code directly from the wallpaper or visit our public domain books with this link: https://bit.ly/1nHLQMB

 

Step 3

Step 3: Download your selection and enjoy on your device! Different types of content work differently on a variety of devices. Our Digital Library Offerings pages give more detailed instructions, with links to apps and step-by-step guides. Just look for the links across the top of the page. You can also search our Digital FAQs to learn more about the process.

 

More Information

About the Digital Library Community Project

The San Antonio Public Library (SAPL) is now making access to information, imagination and ideas even easier! The Digital Library Project is available at community places for library card holders to download and access millions of eBooks, eAudiobooks, movies and more via QR codes. SAPL's entire digital collection is also accessible by visiting mysapl.org/digital.

The Digital Library “wallpaper” is affixed to surfaces inside:

Doris Griffin Senior Center
Normoyle Senior Center
Northeast Senior Center
D.R. Semmes YMCA
Bob Ross Senior Center
Alice Trevino Senior Center
Haven for Hope
Connect at Central
Barshop Jewish Community Center of San Antonio
Ronald R. Darner Parks and Recreation Operations Headquarters
Lions Field Adult and Seniors Center
Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center
Woodard Community Center
South Side Lions Park
Southside Lions Senior Center
Office of the City Clerk
D2 Senior Center
UTHSCA – Dolph Briscoe, Jr. Library
UTHSCA - Greehey Children's Cancer Research Institute
Kampmann Library Portal at the Briscoe Museum

The project is funded by the San Antonio Public Library Foundation and the Friends of the San Antonio Public Library.

 

Welcome to Our Digital Library

Digital Quick Start Guide

Digital Library Community Project
Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Digital Library Community Project?
The Digital Library Community Project serves as a gateway to San Antonio Public Library’s (SAPL) Digital Collection in local, neighborhood places. The Digital Library wallpaper provides SAPL library cardholders access to millions of eBooks, eAudiobooks, movies and more via QR codes. 

Is it free to use?
Absolutely! All services, resources, programs and items at the Library are free!

What do I need?
In order to access the titles within the Digital Library, you will need your SAPL library card number and a smartphone or other Wi-Fi enabled mobile device equipped with a QR code reader. For easier use, we also recommend downloading the Libby app from your Apple or Android app store.

Where do I get a QR code reader and the other apps?
Search for Libby and a QR code reader through the Apple App Store and/or Google Play Store. There you can find and download these apps for free

Which QR code reader should I get?
Not all QR code readers work the same, and some work better with the codes than others. We've found two that we know work well with the public domain titles: QR Code Reader by Scan (for Android) and Red Laser (for iPhone). Consider checking the public ratings and comments for different apps before downloading and installing them. Ultimately, use an app solution that works best for you.

How does it work?
Once you have downloaded your QR code reader, simply scan the QR code of the individual title on the Library wallpaper that you’re interested in, or scan the general QR code to browse the entire digital collection.

What happens next?
Once you have chosen your title, you will be prompted to enter your SAPL library card number. In some instances, you will also be required to create a username and password to access items.  Simply follow the prompts on your screen.

What if the title I want isn’t available?
In some instances, the title you wish to check out will be unavailable. In this case, you can place a hold on the title. You will receive an email when your hold is available. For titles that are unavailable, SAPL will recommend similar titles available now. Simply scroll down to see other available titles recommended for you, based on the title you were searching for.

How do I return the item?
You don’t! Our digital collection returns itself. No need to worry about late fees! However, if you are finished with an item from OverDrive and would like to return the item early, visit your bookshelf in OverDrive or the Libby app, touch and hold the item you would like to return. A screen will pop up that allows you to Return, Delete or Share. Click return and then click YES that you are sure you want to return this item early. Returning the item as soon as you are finished makes the item available to the next person waiting, and helps the library fill holds even faster!

Can I access the Digital Library in any other way?
Yes. Our digital collection is available 24/7 through our website at www.mysapl.org/digital. 

Where can I go if I need more help?
For more help using our Digital Library on your mobile device, visit guides.mysapl.org/digitalquickstart, visit any of our 27 locations, or call 210-207-2500 during regular business hours.

What if I don’t have a SAPL library card?
Don’t have a SAPL library card yet? Visit your local branch to sign up today. Cards are free for all Bexar County residents. Simply stop by any branch location with a photo ID and proof of current address. In the meantime, you can still download eBooks from the Digital Library Wallpaper through our public domain collection. Just look for the blue book on the second shelf titled “Try This One”.