Do I need a library card to
use the collections of The New York Public Library? |
You will need
a Branch Libraries' card only if you wish to borrow
materials from our branches, use the online
databases on this website from outside the
Library. You may apply online by submitting a completed Branch
Libraries Card application. Your application will be processed and the card will be
mailed to the
address you have provided within two weeks. You do not need a card
for onsite use of any of our 85 neighborhood or
central libraries. |
To request collection
materials in any of the reading rooms of the Research
Libraries, you will be required to present an
ACCESS card. Collections of the Research Libraries
are for onsite use only. |
How much does a library card
cost? |
A Branch Libraries'
card is free to anyone who lives, works, pays
property taxes, or attends school in New York
State. Others may apply, with payment of a $100
annual fee, for a nonresident library card. |
ACCESS cards from the Research
Libraries of The New York Public Libraries are
free to all researchers, regardless of their place
of residency. ACCESS cards will be available starting
January, 2003. A replacement fee may be charged
for lost cards. |
How do I get a library card? |
Get your Branch Library card at any of our circulating libraries
in Manhattan, Staten Island or the Bronx [to find
a library see Library
Hours and Locations]. At this time we do not
provide registration for library cards by mail
or e-mail.
Adults must present
current traceable identification that includes
both name and address, but not necessarily on
the same document; for example, a driver's license,
rent receipt, utility bill, apartment lease, or
letter on letterhead stationery from a shelter
for the homeless.
Teenagers who are
in the seventh grade and up or are age 12 or older
must present identification that indicates their
grade levels or ages; for example, a program card,
report card, birth certificate, or a letter from
a teacher on school stationery.
Children must be able
to print their full name in order to apply for
a card. Their applications must be signed and
completed by a parent or guardian. |
To apply for a Research Libraries'
ACCESS card, use the online
form, or pick up a paper application at any
Research Library. General researcher cards with
a three year expiration date, are available to
all applicants 18 years of age and older, who
can present photo identification with proof of
name and address, preferably a photo driver's
license or state identification card.
Young researchers, those under
18 years of age, may request an interview with
a librarian and receive an ACCESS card if it is
determined that the Research Libraries' collections
hold appropriate material to meet the researchers’
needs. These cards have a 6 month expiration date.
School ID is required.
A temporary, non-renewable card,
is available for researchers who do not have appropriate
ID on the day of their visits. This 3-day card
can be converted to a General card upon presentation
of identification.
Each Research Library has a desk
where ACCESS cards can be obtained. |
What is a PIN number and how
to do I get one? |
A PIN is a 4 digit number that provides an extra
level of security when using your library card
to reserve books, renew items by phone, or look
up your personal information in the Catalog.
You will be asked
to choose a PIN when you register for your Branch
Library card. If you do not remember choosing
one, try using the last 4 digits of your telephone
number. If this number does not work, please visit
any branch library so that staff can enter a PIN
into the computer for you. |
ACCESS cards do
not have PIN numbers at this time. |
What should I do if I lose
my library card? |
Report the loss
at once once to any branch library, by phone or
in person. You are responsible for materials taken
out with the card until the card is reported lost
or stolen. A small fee is charged for a new card.
|
Please contact
an ACCESS desk or e-mail
to report a lost or stolen card. A replacement
fee may be charged for lost cards. |
