Library Card
How do I get a library card?
- Full-Access library card: access both physical and digital materials and online learning tools. For a full-access card, visit either of our branch locations and complete the application process with library staff. Click HERE to learn more or to print a library card application.
- Must be 3 years or older to apply.
- Children must be present to be issued a library card.
- eCard: access to digital media and online learning tools.
If you don’t already have a library card and want immediate access to the library’s online resources, our eCard is a great option. Click HERE to apply. (Must be 18 or older to apply.) Visit our Get a Library Card page to learn more!
What kind of identification do I need to get a library card?
- If you are 18 or older: provide a valid photo ID and proof of local address.
- If you are 17 or younger: a parent or guardian must sign the library card application and Parental Consent for Library Access form.
*Children MUST BE PRESENT to be issued a library card.
What do you consider a valid photo ID?
- A government-issued ID, such as a driver’s license, non-driver’s ID, military ID, consular ID, passport, veteran’s administration card, pistol permit, or native tribal card, that includes a photograph.
- A current school or work-issued ID that displays an ID number and your photograph can also be used.
- If the photo ID you present doesn’t include your current address, please bring one of the following (both paper and electronic formats are acceptable):
- Bill or officially postmarked mail
- Electronic utility bill
- Car, voter, or school registration
- Checkbook
- Lease agreement
Can I get a card if I live outside of Tuscaloosa County?
Yes! There’s a $30 annual, non-refundable fee, but you get all the lending privileges of a Tuscaloosa County resident. Visit us at any branch and remember to bring a valid ID. Click HERE to download an application.
- If you are 18 or older: provide a valid photo ID and proof of local address.
- If you are 17 or younger: a parent or guardian must sign the library card application and Parental Consent for Library Access form.
- Must be 3 years or older to apply.
- Children must be present to be issued a library card.
Does my library card expire?
Yes, your library card expires and must be renewed on a yearly basis.
- Renew over the phone: (205) 345-5820. Make sure to have your photo ID handy so that you can confirm your current address and contact information.
- Renew in person. Visit any service desk at any TPL branch. Don’t forget your valid photo ID. We’ll ask you to confirm your current address and contact information.
What should I do if I lose my library card?
Notify the library at (205) 345-5820 immediately if your library card is lost or stolen. You will be responsible for all the materials checked out on your card until you inform the library that it is missing.
How do I get a library card?
We offer two types of FREE library cards:
1. Full-Access library card: access both physical and digital materials and online learning tools. For a full-access card, visit either of our branch locations and complete the application process with library staff. Click HERE to learn more or to print a library card application.
- Must be 3 years or older to apply.
- Children must be present to be issued a library card.
2. eCard: access to digital media and online learning tools.
If you don’t already have a library card and want immediate access to the library’s online resources, our eCard is a great option. Click HERE to apply.
- Must be 18 or older to apply.
Visit our Get a Library Card page to learn more!
What kind of identification do I need to get a library card?
- If you are 18 or older: provide a valid photo ID and proof of local address.
- If you are 17 or younger: a parent or guardian must sign the library card application and Parental Consent for Library Access form. *Children MUST BE PRESENT to be issued a library card.
What do you consider a valid photo ID?
- A government-issued ID, such as a driver’s license, non-driver’s ID, military ID, consular ID, passport, veteran’s administration card, pistol permit, or native tribal card, that includes a photograph.
- A current school or work-issued ID that displays an ID number and your photograph can also be used.
- If the photo ID you present doesn’t include your current address, please bring one of the following (both paper and electronic formats are acceptable):
- Bill or officially postmarked mail
- Electronic utility bill
- Car, voter, or school registration
- Checkbook
- Lease agreement
Can I get a card if I live outside of Tuscaloosa County?
Yes! There’s a $30 annual, non-refundable fee, but you get all the lending privileges of a Tuscaloosa County resident. Visit us at any branch and remember to bring a valid ID. Click HERE to download an application.
- If you are 18 or older: provide a valid photo ID and proof of local address.
- If you are 17 or younger: a parent or guardian must sign the library card application and Parental Consent for Library Access form. *Children MUST BE PRESENT to be issued a library card.
- Must be 3 years or older to apply.
- Children must be present to be issued a library card.
Does my library card expire?
Yes, your library card expires and must be renewed on a yearly basis.
- Renew online! Click HERE.
- Renew over the phone: (205) 345-5820. Make sure to have your photo ID handy so that you can confirm your current address and contact information.
- Renew in person. Visit any service desk at any TPL branch. Don’t forget your valid photo ID. We’ll ask you to confirm your current address and contact information.
What should I do if I lose my library card?
Notify the library at (205) 345-5820 immediately if your library card is lost or stolen. You will be responsible for all the materials checked out on your card until you inform the library that it is missing.