Card Application Options
Full-Membership Library Card
- Visit a library during their service hours to apply for a new or replacement library card.
- From within the Library, fill out the online Application and then go to the Accounts Desk.
- You will need to present a valid form of identification showing your picture, name, and proof of your current address (proof of a U.S. mailing address) to obtain a full-use card. (see: Acceptable Forms of Proof of Address and Acceptable Forms of Photo ID).
- A full-use card can be used to place up to 12 holds.
- See below for more information about card types.
Library eCard
- Apply for a Library eCard from home. Santa Clara County residents gain an eCard instantly.
- Fill out the online eCard Application now, if you are not inside a library.
- An eCard gives you instant, full, free access to the Library's Online Library services, including eBooks, streaming movies, and more.
- See below for more information about card types.
Card Types
Full-Membership Library Card: Full Access
A Library Card is free and lets you borrow books, movies, music, magazines and more from Santa Clara County Library District libraries. The card also provides you with free access to the Online Library, available 24/7 through the library’s website, which includes eBooks, audiobooks, downloadable movies, music, magazines, newspapers, international content, online learning, research and more. Cards are available to all ages.
- Borrow up to 100 items at a time
- Borrow up to 10 console games at a time
- Borrow up to 30 DVDs/Blu-rays at a time
- Request up to 12 items at a time
- Access computer services & online resources
Library eCard
The Library eCard gives you access to our entire Online Library, available 24/7, including eBooks, audiobooks, downloadable movies, music, magazines, newspapers, international content, online learning, research and more. Completing the eCard application form now will provide you with free, instant access to a vast digital collection. eCards are available to all ages.
Library eCards are available to those residing in the Santa Clara County with a valid mailing address. If you do not reside in the County but do have a United States mailing address, a Full-Membership Library Card can be provided to you, free, during your next library visit.
Comparison Chart: Full Card vs. eCard
Limited Access Library Card
- Borrow up to 3 items at a time
- Request up to 3 items at a time
- Access computer services & online resources
Database Use Only Library Card
Available to teachers, school librarians, and administrators at schools located in Santa Clara County for the purpose of demonstrating Library databases to students. Cards are valid for 1 year and only allow use of Library databases. Some databases are available only from within one of our libraries. To apply for a card, please contact a supervising librarian or circulation supervisor at one of our libraries.
Student eAccount
Student eAccounts are issued in collaboration with local schools.
Card FAQs
