What is reciprocal borrowing?

The Walla Walla Public Library is pleased to announce that we have entered into a Reciprocal Borrowing Agreement with our neighboring libraries. The following libraries are part of this Reciprocal Agreement:

  • Richland Public Library
  • Mid-Columbia Libraries
  • Walla Walla County Rural Library District
  • Walla Walla Public Library
  • Columbia County Rural Library District

This agreement means that a patron served by one of these libraries may obtain a free library card at any of these libraries in this agreement.

The reciprocal agreement allows access to physical items and databases. Reciprocal library cards do not grant access to digital materials like Libby and Kanopy. These resources remain exclusive to each library’s primary service population.

How does it work?

If you would like a free reciprocal card at one of the libraries in this agreement, you must visit that library in person with photo ID, proof of address, and a library card from your home library system (this can be a digital card or login). You will register and receive a reciprocal library card from that library. Reciprocal cards are only valid at the library that is issuing that card. For instance, a Mid-Columbia Libraries reciprocal card cannot be used at the Richland Public Library. You will need to register for a card at each library you wish to have access to.

Any items checked out at these libraries must be returned to the library that they were checked out from. WWPL materials should not be returned to any of these other libraries.

What about digital items?

This depends on the individual library. At this time, the Walla Walla Public Library reciprocal card allows access to web-based resources including Consumer Reports, Morningstar, GALE, HeritageQuest Online, NoveList, Pronunciator, LinkedIn Learning, and Tumblebooks. Digital resources including Libby and Kanopy are not part of this agreement. Please contact other libraries in the Reciprocal Agreement directly to learn about their digital materials policies.

How long can I borrow items?

Each library sets its own borrowing periods, so please check with the lending library for due dates when you check out materials. At the Walla Walla Public Library, most materials check out for 3 weeks, with the exception of museum & park passes and tech equipment (1 week checkout), and Bookclub-In-A-Bag (6 week checkout.) You can renew items over the phone or online through our website, unless they’re on hold for another patron.

Is this permanent?

Reciprocal borrowing will be offered as a pilot project, meaning that it may or may not continue, from January 1, 2025 through April 30, 2026. If the program is extended, either indefinitely or for another set duration, reciprocal patrons will be able to renew their accounts.

What if I already have a paid non-resident card?

Current non-resident cards will remain valid until their expiration date, at which time you can renew as a paid non-resident, or switch to a free reciprocal card. Paid non-resident cards retain access to all library items, including digital materials on Libby and Kanopy. To switch to a free reciprocal card account, simply show us your library card from a participating library system. You can also upload a photo of your card and email it to wwpl@wallawallawa.gov with the subject line "Switch to Reciprocal Card". Please include your name, phone number, and current address in the body of the email.

How do I learn more?

We are happy to provide this expanded access to our region and thank our neighboring libraries for being a part of this! If you have any questions, please call us at (509) 527-4550, or email wwpl@wallawallawa.gov.