If you want to borrow books and other materials from your local library, you will need to get a library card. It is relatively easy to get a library card if you come prepared with the right materials, and you can usually get started as a borrower right away. Since most libraries have interlibrary loan agreements, getting a library card will make a large amount of material accessible to you, all for free, which is a pretty good deal.

Most libraries require two things for you to get a library card. The first is proof of identity, and the second is proof of residence. As a general rule, you must be a resident of the region in which a library is located to get a library card. There are some exceptions; some major libraries may let you get a library card if you live in the library's state or province, and others may let borrowers purchase library cards if they are visiting a region. In all cases, you can access library materials without a library card, you just can't take them out of the library.

A driver's license, military ID card, or passport is a great proof of identity; some libraries may have more flexible rules on what they will accept, while others require government issued photo identification. If you have a government issued ID, use it. For proof of residence, bring in a piece of mail which has been sent to you, or a copy of a lease agreement or utility contract. If your identification includes an address and the address has changed, tell the librarian this.

You will also need to fill out a brief form for the library with your name and contact information. The form may be accompanied with a brochure about borrowing privileges so that you know what kind of media you can check out and for how long. Hang on to this brochure, as it may come in useful for you later. Once your library card is issued, you need to sign it and then you are ready to start checking out materials and viewing special collections.

If you lose your library card or it is damaged, the library may require you to pay a small fee for its replacement. You will also have to pay fees and fines for media which is returned late or damaged. When you a get a library card, actions which will result in late fees and other penalties such as a loss of borrowing privileges are usually clearly outlined, so that you know how to avoid them.