We believe it is always a good idea to apply for a new library card. But we know there are many barriers that prevent new users from signing up, whether it’s distance, time, cost, or the fact that many people don’t know how to access the cards.
We are here to help you. We have compiled a list of ways you can get your library cards online, as well as a step-by-step guide on how to do it. Because while we know you can’t have we don’t have to wait for library card registration month to register because it has now started and we can start reading!
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Before you set off to explore all the online libraries in the world, don’t forget that your journey can also start much closer to home. To apply for a library card for your local library online, follow these quick steps:
- Using a search engine of your choice, navigate to your local library’s website.
- Find the “Get a Library Card” or “Use the Library” option and follow the site’s guidelines to register for a card.
- Most libraries that allow online card sign-up will ask you to enter some basic information like your name, email address, and address (to make sure you live in their district!).
- Once you’re done registering, you’ll receive either a virtual card or account number or a physical library card in the mail and you can start reading!
Some libraries offer free library cards (and online registration) to anyone who lives, works, goes to school, or owns property in their state, not just their city or county. For example, some counties have remote library systems that allow you access to any public library within the system using your local library card. Below are some of the libraries that are free to residents of their state:
…and many more. Here are some ways to find out if you’re eligible to sign up for a free library card online in your state:
- If you know your state or city library, visit that library’s website and navigate to the “Get a Library Card” feature for more information.
- If you’re not sure if there are free city or state libraries in your area, contact your local library! After all, libraries are a great source of information and your local librarians (or the library’s website) can tell you more about the benefits your local library card offers you.
- Don’t have a library card for your local library? Don’t worry, it’s easier than ever to find information about your state’s free online libraries. Just search for “free online library card (your state)” and navigate to your state’s website.*
- Follow the instructions on the library website to register for a library card and you’re done!
*Hint: If a library site URL ends in “.gov” or “.org,” you’re probably in the right place!
If your local library doesn’t offer the option to log in online, or you just can’t get enough of online library catalogs (we’ve been there), there are a number of libraries in the United States that offer library cards to non-residents for a monthly or annual fee that allow them access to most of the library’s online resources and, depending on library policy, some personal features as well.
Below are some of the libraries you can sign up for online today!
To apply for a library card online at one of these websites:
- Follow the links above to the homepage of the respective library.
- Navigate to the Use Library, Join, or Get Library Card tabs.
- Follow the instructions on the library’s website and read the registration information carefully. If you live in the county or city where these libraries are located, you can probably get your library card for free.
- Read, read, read!
Want more great books? Sign up for the Early bird Newsletter and get the best daily eBook deals straight to your inbox.
We can’t forget to mention that today there are a number of free online libraries that anyone, anywhere can access. Although their catalogs are often limited and each library has its own lending policy, these sites are a great option for readers like us who like to be able to access their favorite titles whenever they want, but whose wallets don’t always feel that way.
When looking for a free online library, it is important to remember that not all websites are legitimate. Book piracy is a big problem, and downloads from illegitimate websites can often cause all sorts of errors on your device! But don’t worry. We have found two free online libraries whose sole goal is to make books accessible to everyone (including Forbidden books!).
