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Yes. Replacement library cards are free. Visit any branch library with Photo ID and Proof of Address.
Yes. We can reuse library card numbers from public library systems in Maryland, the District of Columbia, and Northern Virginia (Alexandria, Arlington, Fairfax , Falls Church, Loudon and Prince William Counties.) An application still must be completed. A state or federally issued Photo ID and Proof of Address will need to be shown.
Note: A few online library resources are restricted to use by library accounts with PGCMLS barcode numbers.
To apply for a library card, visit any branch library, complete a library card application, show a state or federally issued Photo ID and show Proof of Address if your current address is not listed on your Photo ID.
Examples of acceptable Photo IDs include driver’s licenses, age of majority cards, US Military IDs, passports or permanent resident cards. The Photo ID must be numbered, unexpired and issued by the government.
If your current address is not listed on your Photo ID, bring a Proof of Address document such as a utility bill, lease agreement, pay stub or mail canceled by the US Postal Service with your name and current address listed.
Minors must be accompanied by a parent/guardian who will sign for the card and show appropriate Photo ID and Proof of Address.
Minor changes such as adding an e-mail address or updating contact information can be processed for customers via “Contact Us,” over the phone or in person at the branch. You will need to provide your library account number. Major changes such as name changes or replacing a card must be done in person at the branch and photo ID is required. A card may be reported lost or stolen via any of the above methods.
Residents of Maryland, the District of Columbia, or some Virginia locations (Alexandria, Arlington County, Fairfax County, Falls Church, Loudoun County or Prince William County) may obtain a Prince George’s County library card free of charge.
Anyone residing in Maryland on a temporary basis (e.g., students, military personnel, temporary employees) is eligible for a free temporary library card.
Anyone who does not meet the above criteria can pay $50.00 per year for a non-resident library card.
Report that your card is lost immediately. Call or visit any branch library. You are responsible for all materials and charges up to the time you report your card lost or stolen.
To renew your library card, visit a branch with Photo ID and Proof of Address. Staff will verify your contact information, update the information in your record and renew the card for another three years.
Report that your card was stolen immediately. Call or visit any branch library. You are responsible for all materials and charges up to the time you report your card lost or stolen.
Library cards expire every three years. Expiration dates and the renewal process provide an opportunity to update contact information, stop fraudulent use of cards and eliminate accounts that are no longer active from the library’s database.
We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.
It is important to update your library card information when you change your address, phone number, email address or name so that the Library can properly notify you about overdue materials and materials on hold.