Get Text Alerts

This free service (standard text rates apply) allows the library to send text message alerts to patrons about their library account. In addition, patrons can send text messages, using pre-selected keywords, requesting additional information. Patrons can receive notifications on multiple library cards of items that are ready to pick up at the library, when items are overdue and when new fees appear on their account(s). It can also be used to renew eligible items and search for available items. The service is available in English and Spanish.

Please note that this service is only applicable to physical library materials (does not work for digital titles).

Shoutbomb notices apply to physical library materials, such as books, DVDs, and other items that are available for pickup or must be returned. Notices for eBooks, eAudiobooks, streaming media, and other digital materials are managed separately by the service that provides them.

A phone that can send and receive text messages is required. Text the word TEST to (844) 551-4900 to find out whether your phone is compatible with the service. If you receive a “Test Successful” reply, your phone will work with Shoutbomb. Standard text-message rates apply to all requests sent to Shoutbomb. Confirm with your cell phone provider what rates, if any, will apply to you.

Signing up for text messages from the library is easy!

1. 1. Text the word SIGNUP + YOURBARCODE + PIN to (844) 551-4900.
   2. When you receive a reply asking for a library card number, reply with your library card number.
   3. When you receive a reply asking for a PIN, reply with the PIN for your library card account

Text any of the commands below to (844) 551-4900 or to execute a service. Commands are not case-sensitive.

Shoutbomb processes all requests within 60 seconds of receiving your message; however, we cannot guarantee timely delivery. Most messages are delivered promptly, and most responses are received within a few minutes.

A reply telling you that we could not understand your message typically means you sent a keyword in the wrong format. For example, SIGNUP is correct while SIGN UP is not. Check your spelling and punctuation and try again.

If you still have not received a reply after four hours, send the keyword RESEND. You can use the RESEND command only once per day. This limitation protects against spam messages. If you do not receive a reply after three attempts over three days, please contact your home library.

By default, each notice type—holds, renewals, overdues, and fees—is turned on and eligible for delivery once you sign up. No further action is required. However, each notice type can be turned off or back on at any time after you sign up.

Each notice type has its own keyword and sending a text message to (844) 551-4900 with only this keyword will turn each message type off. Sending the same keyword in text message again will turn it back on. See the chart above for the keyword for each notice type.

You will receive a notification via text message when items on hold are ready to be picked up. You have the option to reply with the keyword “HL”, which sends an abbreviated holds list. You will then receive one or more messages that contains the title(s) of the item(s) on hold. In order to save on space, the length of the titles is limited to 25 characters.

The initial release of the software supports English and Spanish. Additional languages will be added depending on demand.

If you are experiencing any issues with the service or you would like to make a suggestion for improvement, please contact us.

Send the keyword “QUIT” to (844) 551-4900.  You will receive a reply asking for your barcode and pin number.  If both are valid, you will receive a reply that the account has been deleted and no future messages should be expected.