A San Diego Public Library card is your key to all 36 locations in the City of San Diego. In addition to borrowing books, DVDs, and museum passes, your library card allows you to download digital materials, use electronic databases, take online classes, use library computers, and much more.
Begin the process online here, then stop by a library location to get your card. Bring a valid photo ID and proof of current address, and your Temporary Card number (ex. PACREGXXXXXX) with you to pick up your library card at any San Diego Public Library locations.
By applying for a library card you agree to the San Diego Public Library's Lending Policies. Not sure if you qualify? Click here to find out more.
Youth Library Card
Patrons younger than 18 years old can register for a library card using the Online Library Card Application. A parent or guardian needs to sign for responsibility for the card's use. Bring the completed/signed Parental Permission Form to any library location.
Los usuarios menores de 18 años pueden registrarse para una tarjeta de la biblioteca usando la Registración de Tarjetas de la Biblioteca en Línea. Un Padre de Familia o Guardian Legal necesita firmar y tomar responsabilidad del uso de la tarjeta. Lleve el Permiso del Padre de Familia llenado y firmado a cualquier biblioteca de la Ciudad de San Diego.
My First Library Card
Beginning January 18th, 2022, children ages 5 and under can receive their very own library card featuring “Odi the Coyote” San Diego Public Library’s new mascot! Sign your child up for their first library card and take the first step in supporting their early literacy development and lifelong love of reading.
Visit your neighborhood library to enroll your child and they will receive: “My First Library Card" The opportunity to take their picture in an Odi Selfie Frame to share with family and friends And while supplies last, a copy of Odi’s Library Day and an Odi doll (for ages 3+).Picture ID & Address Verification
You will need to present a picture ID which verifies your name, current address and signature. California Driver's License | Identification Card Government issued ID Cards (including Military Identification) University, College, School IdentificationIf your address is not listed on your photo identification, please bring one of the following documents:
Utility Bill (e.g. electric, cable, phone, water) Unopened Postmarked Letter Vehicle Registration or Proof of Insurance Preprinted ChecksLibrary Card Applications
When you sign your library card you assume responsibility for anything that is checked-out on your card.
If you change your mailing address, email address, etc., notify the library on your next visit. If your library card is lost or stolen, it is very important to notify the library as soon as possible since you are still responsible for items checked out on your card.
When an item is lost, you will be charged the cost of the item plus a processing fee. If the lost item is returned, you will be charged any accrued overdue fines.
Your library card privileges must be renewed every two years.
The fee to replace a library card is $2 for adults and $1 for children.
Your Library Card may be used at any San Diego Public Library location.
NOTE: If you have an expired card or need a replacement card, do NOT apply for a new library card. Instead, please visit your local branch library for assistance.
Patrons younger than 18 years old can register for a library card using the Online Library Card Registration. A parent or guardian needs to sign for responsibility for the card's use. Bring the completed/signed Parental Permission Form (PDF) to any library location. Parent/Guardian needs to check whether permission is granted to borrow video materials.
Los usuarios menores de 18 años pueden registrarse para una tarjeta de la biblioteca usando la Registración de Tarjetas de la Biblioteca en Línea. Un Padre de Familia o Guardian Legal necesita firmar y tomar responsabilidad del uso de la tarjeta. Lleve el Permiso del Padre de Familia (PDF) llenado y firmado a cualquier biblioteca de la Ciudad de San Diego.
If you are new to the San Diego Public Library, you may register online for a temporary library card. This will allow you to place up to two (2) holds for desired titles and to use most of the online databases (exceptions are cloudLibrary and OneClick Recorded Books). The temporary card is valid for 30 days. Please see instructions below for how to obtain a permanent library card.
Follow the steps below to activate your temporary access.
If you do not wish to apply for a library card online, please complete the library card Registration Form (PDF) / Solicitud de Registro (PDF). You will need Adobe Acrobat Reader to view and print the application.
Bring the printout or email with your temporary library card # (number) and present it at any San Diego Public Library location. You will also need to present a picture ID which verifies your name, current address and signature (or provide other verification along with a picture ID).
If your current address is not listed on your photo identification, please bring one of the following documents:
For other questions or concerns, call (619) 236-5800 or email weblibrary@sandiego.gov
Patrons younger than 18 years old can register for a library card using the Online Library Card Application. A parent or guardian needs to sign for responsibility for the card's use. Bring the completed/signed Parental Permission Form to any library location.
Los usuarios menores de 18 años pueden registrarse para una tarjeta de la biblioteca usando la Registración de Tarjetas de la Biblioteca en Línea. Un Padre de Familia o Guardian Legal necesita firmar y tomar responsabilidad del uso de la tarjeta. Lleve el Permiso del Padre de Familia llenado y firmado a cualquier biblioteca de la Ciudad de San Diego.
You will need to present a picture ID which verifies your name, current address and signature. California Driver's License | Identification Card Government issued ID Cards (including Military Identification) University, College, School IdentificationIf your address is not listed on your photo identification, please bring one of the following documents:
