Circulation Department

In-Person Service

The Circulation Department is available for in-person service during all of the Library's regular service hours. We ask that you arrive at least 15 minutes before closing for all account based transactions (cards, payments, etc.)

Curbside Service

The Plainfield Public Library is currently providing Curbside Service to provide access to physical materials. Place your bok hold online via the online catalog or call 908-757-1111 x1800. You will receive a notification via your preferred method (phone, email, text) that your item is ready. After you receive the notification call again to schedule an appointment for pickup. Pickup times are limited to weekdays from 9am to 4pm, Come to the library at your scheduled time to pick up your items. Call the staff at 908-757-1111 x1800 to let us know you are here. We will require your library card barcode number. We will meet you at the front door with your book. Accomodations can be made for patrons who do not have a cell phone.

Obtaining a Library Card

Plainfield Public Library cards are non transferable. Only the person whose name appears on the name/signature line of the library card application may use the library card. Unauthorized usage will result in the confiscation of the library card. The true owner will need to retrieve the card from the library with photo ID. During the building closure, we are offering curbside service for new library card pickups. Please contact the Circulation Desk for more information.

Library Card Eligibility
Anyone who lives, works full-time, goes to school full-time, or owns property in Plainfield may obtain a library card; which can be used to check out materials, access online research databases, and use the public computers at the library.  Proof of any of the above will be satisfied by showing such documents as a driver’s license, utility bill, phone bill, pay stub, or an apartment lease. Children in elementary school must have the signature of a parent or legal guardian to obtain a card. Patrons that present ID with a PO Box will be required to show proof of their physical Plainfield address. All Plainfield Public Library cards are valid for three (3) years from date of issue. 

Our Consortium: STELLA

With your library card number and PIN, you can request materials from over 50+ libraries that belong to the STELLA Consortium! STELLA libraries (formerly LMxAC) are located throughout Middlesex, Monmouth, and Union Counties.

Download the STELLA app today! With the app, you can store a digital copy of your library card, easily search the catalog, view your account, and more! 

M.U.R.A.L. Reciprocal Borrowing
The Plainfield Public Library also participates in a reciprocal borrowing arrangement called M.U.R.A.L. (Middlesex Union Reciprocal Agreement Libraries). M.U.R.A.L. patrons in good standing status may borrow from any of the participating libraries. Calling ahead is advisable as each library may have certain restrictions on what materials may be borrowed.

If you do not reside in Plainfield but you live in a M.U.R.A.L. town, you can register with a valid library card from your home library and photo ID. MURAL membership is issued for a one-year period. Each year MURAL cardholders must renew their membership by providing proof of valid membership in their home library. 

Somerset County Library System

Plainfield Public Library partners with Somerset County Library System to allow patrons to use each other's resources.  For a list of branch locations in the Somerset County Library System please click here. Please note Reading Stations are exempt from Reciprocal Borrowing.

If you have a valid SCLSNJ library card, bring it to Plainfield along with a valid ID. SCLSNJ cardholders can have access to all of Plainfield materials and services except:     

1. Museum passes

2. e-books, e-audiobooks, and research databases (due to licensing agreements).

3. Interlibrary loan and item purchase requests (request from your home library).

If you have a valid Plainfield Public Library card, visit any of the SCLSNJ branch locations and present it along with a valid ID. Plainfield cardholders can have access to all of SCLSNJ materials and services except:         

1. Museum passes

2. e-books, e-audiobooks, and research databases (due to licensing agreements).

3. Interlibrary loan and item purchase requests (request from your home library).

4. Meeting Rooms

All materials checked out from an SCLSNJ location must be returned at SCLSNJ, and all materials checked out at Plainfield must be returned to Plainfield.

Replacement Cards

Library card numbers will not be given at patron's request. If you have lost your card, please visit the Circulation Desk for assistance.

Methods of Payment

The Library accepts cash, all major credit cards, and online payments via the SmartPay feature, which is also accesible when you log-in to your account from our online catalog.