A library card gives borrowing and usage privileges at the Main Library
and all branches and provides remote access to the
Library's online resources. Library cards are required for checking out materials
and for using many library services and materials. Most cards expire
after four years. Residents of California with identification may obtain a library card for free, although fees are charged
to replace lost cards ($.50 for children and young adults; $1.00 for adults and seniors). Applications are available at
the Main Library and all branches and are to be submitted in person.
[San Francisco residents who are homebound (PDF) may apply
for library cards by mail.]
A library card will be issued when one of the following is presented:
- Valid California Driver License showing residential address, or
- Valid California State Identification Card showing residential address
OR, any item from EACH of the following two lists:
Current Picture Identification (I.D.):
- Passport
- Alien Registration Card
- Military I.D.
- School-issued student I.D.
- Consular I.D. card
- Employee identification card
- Out-of-state driver license
Address Verification: (must include name and California residential address)
- Mail postmarked within the last 30 days
- An imprinted bank check or deposit slip
- Current rent receipt (confirming 30 day occupancy)
- Current utility bill dated within the last 30 days
- Medi-Cal card
Library Card Applications
Print Out & Fill In
|
Online Version
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For identity purposes, the application process must be completed at a library location.
Applications cannot be accepted by mail, e-mail or fax.
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Types of Library Cards and Requirements
| California
resident between 18 and 64 who meets the I.D. requirements |
| California
resident between 13 and 17 who meets the I.D. requirements
OR has a parent/guardian sign the application |
| California
resident from birth to 12 with application signed
by a parent/guardian |
| California
resident 65 or older who meets the I.D. requirements
and has verification of age |
| California
resident who cannot meet the I.D. requirements;
one item at a time may be borrowed; card is valid
for 3 months |
| Application
for San Francisco resident with a permanent or
long-term disability (PDF) who meets the I.D. requirements |
| Any
firm, special library or government office located
in San Francisco; must use letterhead to request
a Business Card and name the authorized endorser;
may name up to 3 other persons who may use the
card |
| Visitors from outside of California
with current picture I.D.; must provide temporary
San Francisco address; must pay a $10 non-refundable
deposit (card is valid for 3 months and may be
renewed with an additional deposit) |
