What is the Zip Books Program?

Zip Books is a grant funded program by the California State Library. Library patrons may request a book or book on CD not currently owned by Tulare Public Library (TPL).  If your request is approved by staff, it is purchased through Amazon and sent directly to your home for free. After 6 weeks, those items are due back at the library where most will be added to the collection. 

Funding provided by the State of California

Program Guidelines

• Patron must live in Tulare County and have a Tulare Public Library card with $10 or less in fines.
• Library patrons may request a book or audio book not currently owned by Tulare Public Library (TPL). 
• The book must be available through Amazon Prime, and cost no more than $50, or $75 for an audiobook (pre-tax).
• New Update: two requests at a time
• If your request is approved by staff (within a week of request), the book is purchased through Amazon and sent directly to your mailing address for free.
• After 6 weeks, your book is due back at the library where most will be added to the collection!

To Request an Item 

Please complete a Zip Books form online or visit Tulare Public Library to complete a physical form.

New: Visit our Zip Books eAudio & eBooks Page to learn how to request them!

12/16/2025: Due to recent technical difficulties Zip Book Applications may experience some delay. 

The Tulare Public Library is committed to protecting the privacy of all users, and data gathered will only be used for the purposes of providing the requested library service.