What the Adults Only tab does and why you might use it

The Adults Only tab is a separate section in your library account where you can keep movies, books, and streaming service access that you don't want showing up in your main library list. It works like a private shelf — the content is still yours to use, but it's hidden from the default view of your account.

Libraries offer this feature because adults sometimes want to borrow materials without those titles appearing in a shared household account or in a list that other people using the same device might see. You might use it for medical books, memoirs about difficult topics, documentaries on sensitive subjects, or straightforward content you prefer to keep private.

The Adults Only tab is not a restriction or a filter — it's a visibility tool. Your library doesn't judge what goes in it, and nothing in that tab is blocked or harder to access. It just doesn't show up unless someone clicks on the Adults Only section specifically.

Key Takeaways

  • The Adults Only tab is a hidden section of your library account where you can keep content private from other people using the same device or account.
  • You create the tab by going to your account settings, finding the privacy or content settings section, and toggling on the Adults Only view.
  • Once the tab exists, you can move items to it by selecting a title and choosing "Add to Adults Only" or a similar option from the menu.
  • Only you can see what's in the Adults Only tab unless you share your login credentials with someone else.
  • The tab works across movies, books, and streaming services — anything your library offers through its digital collection.

How to turn on the Adults Only tab in your library account

Start by logging into your library account on the library's website or app. Look for a menu icon (usually three horizontal lines) or a "My Account" link, typically in the top right corner of the screen.

Once you're in your account settings, search for a section called "Privacy," "Content Settings," "Display Preferences," or "Account Preferences" — the exact name varies by library system. Click into that section and look for a toggle or checkbox that says "Show Adults Only Tab," "Enable Adults Only Section," or similar language.

Turn that toggle on. The Adults Only tab should appear when ready in your library account, usually as a new section alongside your other tabs like "My Books" or "My Movies." If it doesn't appear right away, try refreshing the page or closing and reopening the app.

Moving items to your Adults Only tab

Once the tab is active, you can move content into it in two ways: when you first borrow something, or after you've already added it to your account.

When borrowing a new title, look for a dropdown menu or additional options button (often three dots or a plus sign) on the title's page. Select "Add to Adults Only" or "Move to Adults Only" from that menu. The item will go directly into the Adults Only tab instead of your main library list.

To move something you've already borrowed, go to your main library list, find the title, and open its menu. Select "Move to Adults Only" or "Add to Adults Only." The title will disappear from your main view and reappear only in the Adults Only tab.

Accessing and managing your Adults Only content

Your Adults Only tab works exactly like any other section of your library account. Click on the Adults Only tab to see everything you've placed there. You can borrow from it, renew items, place holds, and return materials just as you would from your main library list.

You can also move items back out of the Adults Only tab if you change your mind. Open the item's menu and select "Move to Main Library" or "Remove from Adults Only." It will reappear in your regular library list.

If you ever want to hide the Adults Only tab again, go back to your account settings and toggle it off. The content doesn't disappear — it just becomes invisible. If you turn the tab back on later, everything you placed there will still be there.

What happens if you share your library account

If multiple people in your household use the same library login, only the person who knows the account password can see the Adults Only tab. The tab itself is password-protected as part of your account settings.

However, if someone else logs into your account using your password, they will see the Adults Only tab and everything in it. If privacy from household members is important to you, consider whether sharing a login is the right choice, or talk with your library about whether they offer individual accounts for household members.

Some library systems allow you to set up separate accounts for each adult in a household, each with its own login and privacy settings. Ask your library whether this option is available.

Troubleshooting common problems

If the Adults Only tab doesn't appear after you toggle it on, try logging out completely and logging back in. Sometimes the change takes a moment to sync across the library's system.

If you can't find the privacy settings, check whether your library uses a third-party app or platform to deliver digital content. Libraries that use Libby, Hoopla, Kanopy, or other services sometimes have different settings locations. Look for "Settings" or "Preferences" within that specific app, not just in the main library website.

If an item won't move to the Adults Only tab, it may be because that particular title or service doesn't support the feature. Most books and movies do, but some streaming services integrated into library accounts have their own privacy rules. Try moving a different item to confirm the feature is working, then contact your library about the specific title.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my library see what I put in the Adults Only tab?

Your library's staff can see that you have an Adults Only tab enabled, but they cannot see the specific titles in it. Your borrowing history is private. Libraries do not monitor or report on what individual patrons borrow.

What if I forget to turn on the Adults Only tab before borrowing something?

You can move it after the fact. Go to your library list, find the title, open its menu, and select the option to move it to Adults Only. It will disappear from your main view when ready.

Does the Adults Only tab cost anything?

No. The Adults Only tab is a free feature included with your library account. There are no extra fees or subscriptions required to use it.

Can I use the Adults Only tab on the library app and the website?

Yes. Your Adults Only settings sync across the library's website and mobile app, so items you move to the tab on one platform will appear in the Adults Only section on the other.

What if my library doesn't have an Adults Only tab option?

Not all library systems offer this feature yet. Contact your library's help desk and ask whether they plan to add it. In the meantime, you can ask about other privacy options, such as setting up a separate account or using a private browsing mode on your device.