Apply for a Library Card

Why do I need a library card?

With a library card from your home library, you can borrow on-line or in person from among the more than 5 million items available on the shelves of our 73 member libraries.

Your library card opens up the world of the BCCLS databases - full-text articles from over 1,000 magazines and newspapers.

In addition to books, movies, audiobooks, magazines, CDs, and databases, your library card is your ticket to the many cultural events at your library, including concerts, films, book clubs, lectures, and outstanding programs for children and teens.

How do I know if I am eligible for a library card?

If you are a resident of one of the 73 towns in BCCLS, you are eligible for a library card.

A few restrictions may apply. For example, if you work in a BCCLS town but don't live in a BCCLS town, you may apply in person for a Courtesy Card at the library in the town where you work.

If you neither live nor work in a BCCLS town you may still be able to obtain a library card. Many BCCLS libraries sell Pay Cards. You must apply for these in person. Call to inquire at the library of your choice.

The Online Application is for NEW cards only. If you have lost your library card or have moved from one BCCLS town to another, please visit your hometown library.

Some libraries may have a minimum age requirement for a library card. Parents or guardians should check with their hometown library.

What do I need to obtain a library card?

Each BCCLS library has different policies. You will be asked for identification to show that you are a resident of your community. Some libraries ask for one form of ID, others two. Some examples of valid ID include a utility bill, phone bill, driver's license, rent receipt, bank statement, voter registration card, checks imprinted with name and address, mortgage document, lease agreement, etc. Please be sure to bring valid ID with you when you pick up your new library card

If you are a minor applying for a library card, your library may require that a parent or guardian sign your application.

When will my card be ready?

The next time you visit your library tell them that you applied for a library card online. Please be sure to bring valid ID. The library staff will be happy to process your registration at that time. Most libraries will ask that you sign an application card. This is your contract with the library confirming that you will abide by the library's rules.

If you have any library related questions, they can all be answered when you visit your home library to sign your application and pick up your card.

Please visit your library at your earliest convenience after completing the application. Applications more than 30 days old may be deleted making it necessary for you to re-apply.

Please complete and submit this form to apply for a library card at a BCCLS library:

First Name:
Last Name:
Address:
City, State ZIP:	Palisades Park, NJ 07650
Phone:	ex: 201-555-1234
Email address:
Your age:	18 or older under 18