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Want to find out if you already have a Library Card or if your residence address is within the city limits of Austin before applying? Call Customer Service at 512-974-7475.

Apply for a Library CardRenew Library Card

Library Card and Circulation Policies

Your Library Card is your key to checking out books and Library materials at any of APL’s 21 locations and the Virtual Library.

1. Check your address here to find out if you are eligible for a free Austin resident Library Card (if you reside at an address in the Austin Full Purpose jurisdiction, you qualify for a free Library Card)
2. Fill out the online application
3. Bring your photo ID and proof of residence address to an APL location

Customers who do not have internet access or need assistance completing the Library Card Application online can call 512-974-7400 and press 1 to speak to a Librarian.

Note: On February 17, 2022, the Austin City Council adopted an ordinance eliminating fees for overdue library materials for patrons at Austin Public Library. This change went into effect on Monday, February 28, 2022. We have created a Fine-Free Library FAQ to help library customers understand what this change will mean for them.

What is the cost?

Library Cards and eCards are free for Austin residents.

What about Non-residents?

Non-resident Library Cards are available for $120 annually or $30 quarterly. Nonresidents can apply for a free limited access Library Card by presenting their current/valid TexShare card from a participating library system.

Student Library Cards
The non-resident fee is waived for any student who either lives in or is enrolled in any school in Travis County - including private school, public, daycare, charter, and home school students - until completion of high school. These students are eligible for a Student Library Card. For more information and frequently asked questions, check out our Student Library Card page.

eCard

Apply for an eCard

The Austin Public Library eCard gives homebound adults or just plain busy Austin residents (18 years and older) access to the Virtual Library. If you have an Austin Public Library Card, you already have access to the Virtual Library.

1. Fill out an online eCard application, then upload your photo ID and residence address documentation
2. The application will be processed within 2-3 business days; once approved, you will receive an email with your eCard number
3. The eCard gives you 24/7 access to the Virtual Library

Enhanced Library Card

The Enhanced Library Card is a library card for adults (18 or older) that includes your library card number, photograph, address, date of birth, the expiration date, and a scannable barcode. To find out which three APL locations are issuing the Enhanced Library Card and additional information about it, click here.