About the Books By Mail Catalogs

As of August 2015, Books By Mail patrons can order books from both the URSUS and MaineCat catalogs.

Instructions for Ordering Books By Mail Online

Make sure you have your card with you before you get started...

Check the URSUS Catalog First

  • Visit to the Books By Mail page and follow the link to Search URSUS Catalog.
  • On the drop-down menu, choose whether you want to search by author, title, or keyword.
  • Enter your search terms (author is last name first, i.e. King, Stephen).
  • If we have items meeting your search criteria, you will see a list. You may click on a specific title to find out more about it.
  • Once you bring up a record for a title you want, click on Request.
  • Enter your last name, your barcode number found on your library card, and select Maine State Library from the pull-down list for Pickup Location.
  • Click on Submit. If the request was successful, the item(s) will be mailed to you.

If you don't find what you need in URSUS, Search the MaineCat Catalog

  • Visit to the Books By Mail page and follow the link to Search MaineCat Catalog.
  • Once you bring up a record for a title you want, click on Request This Item.
  • Enter your last name, your barcode number found on your library card, and select Maine State Library from the pull-down list for Pickup Location.
  • Click on Submit. If the request was successful, the item(s) will be mailed to you.

Instructions for Mailing-in Books By Mail Requests

No computer? No problem! Just send in your order by mail.

  • Provide as much information as possible (title, author, publication date, etc) about the book(s) you are requesting.
  • Include your name and the barcode number found on your library card.
  • Send your request to: Maine State Library, Books By Mail Program, 64 State House Station, Augusta, ME 04333

For More Information

Need more help? We are here for you! Call Maine State Library Outreach Services at 1-800-762-7106, or use the Contact Us Form to send us an email.