HomeLibrary Cards
How do I obtain an Albany Public Library card?
- I reside within the city limits of Albany or own property there.
- I reside in an unincorporated area.
- I own a business or rental property in the Albany city limits.
- I have a valid library card from some other city in the Willamette Valley.
- I need to renew my card.
- Can I borrow books from other libraries?
I reside within the city limits of Albany or own property there.
To get a library card, you need to bring proof of residency. If you live at the property, you can bring a driver's license with your current address, a rent receipt, a utility bill, or a piece of first-class mail that has been postmarked in the last 30 days and has your name on it. If you are 18 or over, you are also asked to bring a picture ID. Once you have provided that information and filled out an application, your card is valid and you may check out materials. If you are under 18, you will need to be accompanied by your guardian or parent (who will need to bring a picture ID and proof of residence) as they are legally responsible for all items checked out on a minor's card.
I reside in an unincorporated area.
Those living outside of the Albany city limits must pay a nonresident fee that is prorated according to the taxes paid by in-city home or property owners. At this time, the fee is \$60.00 a year for a family, \$30.00 a year for an individual, and \$10.00 a year for a card that is limited to items in the Children's Room.
I own a business or rental property within the Albany city limits.
Anyone owning property within the city limits is eligible for a card. The business will need to provide a letter on letterhead requesting that a card be issued to the business. People owning rental property but living elsewhere will need to provide a copy of their property tax statement on a yearly basis, as well as proof of current mailing address and a picture ID.
I have a valid library card from some other city in the Willamette Valley.
Albany Public Library does not have reciprocal borrowing privileges with any other library. In order to use the Library, you need to have a current Albany Library card.
I need to renew my card.
Albany Public Library cards expire once every two years allowing us to keep up with address changes. You will need to bring in your identification with a current address to update your Library card.
What if I want to request an item that the Library does not own?
If the Library doesn't own an item, we can borrow it from another library at a cost of $3.00 per request (an Interlibrary Loan). These requests must be filed at the Reference Desk and paid in advance.
If you placed an Interlibrary Loan request, you will be called or notified by mail.
