Library Cards
BRING YOUR CARD EVERY TIME
You will need it to check out materials, access your Library account, place items on hold, and to use most of the Library's Internet and word processing computers. You may have 50 items checked out at any given time.
Library Cards
- Any California resident is entitled to a free Berkeley Public Library card. You do not need to live in Berkeley to get a Berkeley Public Library card.
- To get a card, present a photo ID and proof of your current address.
- Applications are available in English, Spanish and Chinese.
- Library cards enable you to use the Library's Internet and word processing computers.
- Library cards are FREE.
- Cards expire after two years. Renew the card at that time.
- There is a $1 replacement fee for lost, stolen, or damaged cards.
- If any of your personal information - such as your address, phone number or email address- changes, or if your card is lost or stolen, notify the Library immediately.
- You are responsible for all items checked out on your card.
- Tool loan is available only to Berkeley residents or Berkeley property owners. Details about eligibility are available here.
Library Cards for Teenagers
- People 14 and older are considered adults. Teens do not need a parent's signature to get a card.
- Teens must present photo ID and something with their address, for example, California ID, California Driver's License, school ID, or passport. If the photo ID does not show your current address, you may present a grade report, or other item that shows the home address.
- Giving the Library your birth year when you apply for or renew your card will allow you to use Internet and word processing computers designated for teens only.
Library Cards for Children
- To get a Berkeley Public Library card for a child through age 13, complete the application form and take it to the library card desk. Applications are available at all locations, or you may download the children's application.
Note: this is not an interactive form. - The child must be five-years-old to get a card.
- The form must be signed by the child's parent or legal guardian.
- The child must be present to receive his/her library card.
- Teachers: you may print out this application and photocopy it for your students.
- Teachers: if you have made an appointment for a class visit, please return the completed library card applications to the library site you will be visiting at least five working days before the visit.
- For more information, please contact the Children's staff.
Library Cards for People Visiting Berkeley
You must have a California address in order to get a card.