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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. 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 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 current address, or
Valid California State Identification Card showing current 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 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

Types of Library Cards and Requirements
Adult	California resident between 18 and 64 who meets the I.D. requirements
Young Adult	California resident between 14 and 17 who meets the I.D. requirements OR has a parent/guardian sign the application
Juvenile	California resident from birth to 13 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
Homebound	San Francisco resident with a permanent or long-term disability 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	Non-California resident with out-of-state I.D.; must provide temporary San Francisco address; must pay a $10.00 non-refundable deposit (card is valid for 3 months and may be renewed with an additional deposit)

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