Get a Library Card

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 Bring with I.D. to any library location. English (PDF) 中文 Chinese (PDF) 日本語 Japanese (PDF) Русский Russian (PDF) español Spanish (PDF)	Online Version Fill out online, bring confirmation number and I.D. to any library location. English 中文 Chinese español Spanish
For identity purposes, the application process must be completed at a library location. Applications cannot be accepted by mail, e-mail or fax.

Types of Library Cards and Requirements

Adult	California resident between 18 and 64 who meets the I.D. requirements
Teen	California resident between 13 and 17 who meets the I.D. requirements OR has a parent/guardian sign the application
Juvenile	California resident from birth to 12 with application signed by a parent/guardian
Senior	California resident 65 or older who meets the I.D. requirements and has verification of age
Restricted	California resident who cannot meet the I.D. requirements; one item at a time may be borrowed; card is valid for 3 months
eCard	SFPL eCards are virtual library cards that allow users immediate remote access to all of the San Francisco Public Library's electronic resources, including magazine databases, downloadable audio books and music. eCard users who wish to check out library materials will be asked to upgrade to a full-access SFPL card. Learn more about eCards.
Homebound	Application for San Francisco resident with a permanent or long-term disability (PDF) who meets the I.D. requirements
Business	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
Visitor	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)