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About the Library
The Gulf Shores Library is open!
Monday through Friday, 10am - 6pm
Policies & Services
- Our free Wi-Fi is available 24/7. After hours, you can access this service from our parking lot. The west side of the building has the best reception. Look for GS_Library in your WiFi settings. No password is required.
- Access our public internet in the lab for an unlimited number of 45 minute sessions per day. The lab computers will automatically log off each day at 5:39pm.
- We offer printing from the computer lab and a photocopier for your use starting at $0.15 per page.
- We can scan documents to your email free of charge.
- You can obtain more information by downloading our brochure.
Library Cards
Free cards are available to:
- All full-time residents of Baldwin County, children and adults, with proper ID and a valid mailing address.
- Children under 16 need a parent or guardian present when applying for their card.
- Visitors who present a valid picture ID and a home mailing address.
- Apply online for a library card.
- If you cannot come in person to the library, you can get access to electronic books through Libby. You will need your library card number to access Libby online.
Already Have a Card
- Your Patron ID is your library card number which is located on the back of your card beneath the barcode.
- When you receive your card, the PIN is already set to the last four digits of your library card number.
- You will need your library card number and PIN to access some of our online resources.
- Check your patron account.
- Wendy Congiardo - Managing Librarian
- Deanne - Youth Services Librarian
- Kelli - Adult Services Librarian
- Vern - Reference Librarian
- Julie - Technical Services Librarian
- Melody - Circulation Supervisor
- Lisa, Shelby, & Lisa - Library Assistants
Library History
Beginning in the early 1950s, Gulf Shores citizens, with attention from the Gulf Shores Woman’s Club, began working toward the creation of a library for the city. Countless fundraisers later, the Thomas B. Norton Library is a thriving resource for residents and visitors alike. The facility is user friendly, with a wide array of programs and resources to help readers accomplish their objectives, whether it be research, schoolwork or reading for pleasure.
The Friends of the Library Club was instrumental in getting the library started. Through their efforts, funds were raised and money was allocated from the Baldwin County Library Fund. From those early days, the Library has grown and flourished and as modern technology has improved. Patrons now have remote access to the library’s tools and catalog, and the features are easy to use.
Today, Thomas B. Norton Library offers a wealth of technology, services, resources, and special programs, and we can assist you with any questions along the way.
Friends of the Library
The Friends of the Library Group was officially organized in 1972. Prior to the official formation of the club, members of the Gulf Shores Women’s Club worked diligently to secure a library for the city. They worked from 1953-1971 to raise funds, starting small with a swap of books program and building until 1964 when they qualified for $1000 of Baldwin County Library funds. In 1965, the Gulf Shores Library opened with 300 books.
For years, the Friends prepared and sold turkey dinners as a fundraising project. The money was used to purchase books, shelves, clocks and special materials. Different projects progressed from the turkey dinners to an annual dessert card party raffle.
Currently, the Friends host an ongoing book sale within the Library. They offer a variety of recent used books and magazines at very reasonable prices.
Annual membership dues for the Friends of the Library Club are currently set at $10. For more information, please inquire at the library.
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Wendy Congiardo
Managing LibrarianPhone: 251-968-1176