Get a TPL eCard

If I already have a TPL full-access card, do I need an eCard?

No. Your current card can be used for online services. Call us at (205) 345-5820 to find out if you have a card or if it needs to be renewed.

Who can apply for a free eCard?

If you’ve never had a Tuscaloosa Public Library card and only want to use TPL’s online resources, the eCard is available to:

Tuscaloosa County residents aged 18 or older (must have a government-issued photo ID);
College students, staff, and faculty at the University of Alabama, Shelton State, or Stillman;
Tuscaloosa City or County educators.

What do I need to get my eCard?

To apply for an eCard you will need one of the following:

Tuscaloosa County Residents

A government-issued photo ID with a current Tuscaloosa County address OR a government-issued photo ID and a document that shows proof of local address (Example: utility bill, bank statement, lease agreement).
An Alabama license is not required.

College Student/Staff

Student/staff/faculty ID card from UA, Shelton State, or Stillman AND a government-issued photo ID (Example: driver’s license, state ID, passport).
Please provide school ID number if it is not specified on the ID card.
An Alabama license is not required.

Tuscaloosa City/County Educators

A staff ID card from a Tuscaloosa City or County school AND a government-issued photo ID.
An Alabama license or proof of local address is not required.

How will I receive my eCard?

After submitting the online form, you will receive an email with your eCard number, as well as a message highlighting the privileges and restrictions the eCard provides. Please note: the eCard must be renewed annually.

How long will it take to receive my eCard?

We do our best to process eCard applications quickly and efficiently. While the average turnaround time is 2-3 business days, it can take up to 7 days when demand is high. If you need immediate access to resources, please visit the library in person to apply for a card.

Can I renew my eCard?

Yes. If you are currently an eCard patron and would like to renew your membership, simply submit another application complete with an upload of your DL/ID as well as proof of address or Student ID. You will keep the library card number assigned to you and we will confirm your account renewal once your information has been verified.

What services do I receive with my eCard?

Use your eCard to:

Check out digital media on Overdrive/Libby, and Hoopla.
Use online learning resources on LinkedIn Learning, Homework Alabama.org, Learning Express, and Rocket Languages.

What services are not available with my eCard?

Your eCard does not allow access to the following materials and services:

Physical materials, such as books, DVDS, audiobooks, music CDs, and wifi hotspots.
Interlibrary loan request.
Holds on physical library materials.

Note: you CAN convert your eCard to a full-access library card at any TPL location. A current government-issued ID with name, photo, and proof of Tuscaloosa County address or enrollment at a local college is required.

TPL eCard Registration Form

Date of Birth (ex. 1983-01-28) (required)

First Name * (required)

Last Name * (required)

Phone Number * (required)

Your Email * (required)

License or State ID Number * (required)

Address * (required)

City * (required)

State * (required)

Zip Code * (required)

Student/Staff ID (if applicable)

College (if applicable)

Upload Proof of License or State ID *
(required)
(The maximum file size limit is 4MB.)

Upload Proof of Student/Staff ID
(if applicable)
(The maximum file size limit is 4MB.)

Upload Proof of Address
(if applicable)
(The maximum file size limit is 4MB.)

Create 4-digit PIN * (required)

User Agreement * (required)
The TPL eCard allows patrons to access and use electronic resources provided by TPL. Do not lend your card number or PIN.
Contact the library immediately if you think someone has gained unauthorized access to your card or regarding any changes in address, phone number, or email address.