Did you check behind your glove department? In most compact vehicles, the cabin air filter is located behind your glove department. As for SUV's, there located under the hood on top near the windshield.
I believe on a 97 Corolla, theres a screw on both sides, one on the left and one on the right, just unscrew them and look behind. If you find your cabin filter, just pull it out and replace it as neccessary.
Hope this helps
