Small enough to fit in the palm of your hand, powerful enough to change your life! A library card allows you to reserve and borrow physical materials and access online databases in the library and remotely as available.
You are eligible for a free library card if you live, work, own property or attend school in Chester County. Out-of-county residents who are ACCESS PA cardholders may use their ACCESS PA card under the Statewide Library card program. All others who wish to obtain a library card but do not meet eligibility for a free library card may be charged a fee of up to $20.
Due to contractual requirements with our vendors, only patrons who live, work, own property or attend school in Chester County will be able to access our online resources, including Overdrive (Libby and Kanopy), Flipster, Mango, and research databases.
Ways to Apply for a Library Card
In-person
We will be happy to help you apply for a library card during our open hours (Monday through Friday, 10:00am to 6:00pm, and Saturday, 9:00am to 4:00pm). Bring a valid ID such as a driver’s license to verify your address. Recent mail from a utility may also be used to verify your address. Children may use the parent or guardian ID with a matching address. You may download and fill out the application link below and bring it with you, or we can provide an application when you arrive.
Online
Adults 18 years and older may apply for a library card online. Once you have submitted the form, we will process your application. You should expect to receive your new card in the mail within 3 - 5 business days. Your library card will have an expiration date of approximately 90 days. You can check the exact date by logging into My Account once you have received your card. You will be required to show valid ID before you may borrow materials. Photo ID is preferred but not required, as long as the document shown verifies name and address information. Once your address information is verified, your borrowing privileges will be established and you will be able to borrow materials at any of the Chester County Library System member libraries. Accounts need to be updated every three years.
With the Mobile App
Adults can apply for a library card using the Chester County Library System mobile app. You will be asked to upload photos of two forms of valid ID verifying your current address. The app is available to download in the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.
Renew My Library Card
You can renew an expiring adult card at any member library by presenting identification that verifies your current address. You can also renew your card with the mobile app. After renewing, accounts need to be updated every three years.
You will not be issued a new library card unless your original card is lost or damaged.
Expired cards cannot be used to borrow or renew materials, place holds, or download e-materials.
Cardholder expiration dates are visible just below the address in My Account
Minor’s cards will expire when the cardholder reaches 18 years of age. When a minor’s card expires, they must show identification that verifies current address and complete an adult application form to reactivate their account.
