Zip Books
The Zip Books program provides library users with speedy access to books that are not available at their local libraries. A patron simply requests the item, the library purchases it from Amazon Prime, and the book is shipped directly to the patron’s home. When finished, the patron returns the book to the library, where it is reviewed for possible inclusion in the collection.
Zip Books FAQs
What are Zip Books?
Zip Books allows patrons to request books that are not already in the library collection. The service is free and the items are shipped directly to the patron. When the books are returned, they can be added to the library’s collection so that other patrons can enjoy them!
Why is the library offering this program?
The goal of this program is to provide patrons with quick and convenient access to materials not available in the library collection at no additional cost. The program also fosters community-driven collection development to fulfill the community’s information needs.
What do I need to participate in the Zip Books Program?
Patrons must have a valid Monterey Park Bruggemeyer Library card. Don't have one? Stop by the circulation desk to register today!
What can I request through the Zip Books Program?
- Patrons can only request items that are currently NOT in the library collection.
- Patrons can request new physical books available to purchase on Amazon Prime.
- Patrons cannot request:
- Audiobooks
- Textbooks
- Workbooks
- Pre-orders
- DVDs, Blu-rays, CDs
- Used books
- Series books which are not the first in the series
- Books primarily intended for an academic audience
- Items that exceed (including sales tax):
- $50.00 English Books
- $60.00 Foreign Language
- For information about requesting ebooks and eaudiobooks, see the section at the bottom of this page.
How many Zip Books can I request?
Patrons may request one Zip Book per household each month. Households are defined as individuals or people sharing the same street address. Patrons must return previously borrowed Zip Books before requesting a new Zip Book.
How long can I keep Zip Books?
Patrons can keep their Zip Books for 21 days. Need more time? Your books will automatically renew twice for a total of nine weeks. Patrons will be billed for items that are damaged or lost.
Can I have Zip Books delivered to my P.O. box?
Items can be shipped to P.O. boxes but may result in longer delivery times as Amazon's same-day and 2-day delivery services do not apply to P.O. boxes.
Where do I return my Zip Books?
Zip Books must be returned in their original packaging to the circulation desk during normal hours. Please do not put Zip Books in the outside book drops. Be sure to include any accompanying gift receipts or packing slips.
Will my Zip Book be added to the library collection automatically?
After Zip Books are returned to the library, they are reviewed by library staff according to the Collection Development Policy (PDF). Books that fit the criteria in the policy will be added to the collection.
How can I request Zip Books?
Patrons can fill out the Zip Books Request Form online or visit the Adult and Children's Reference Desks to complete a form.
eBooks & eAudiobooks
Patrons can request an ebook or eaudiobook through the Palace Marketplace, an initiative of the California State Library. If a requested item is purchased, patrons will be able to access it by downloading the Palace Project app, an app which integrates with Libby and other library apps so that patrons can access all their digital collection in one place.
To request an ebook or eaudiobook through the Palace Marketplace, visit the Palace Project Form for eBooks & eAudiobooks link.
This project was supported in whole or in part by funding provided by the State of California, administered by the California State Library.