Who is Eligible?
You can get a free library card if you live, work, or attend school in Arlington. You are also eligible if you live in one of the participating reciprocal jurisdictions. Arlington residents may apply for library cards in any of these jurisdictions, and residents there may apply for an Arlington Public Library card.
Reciprocal Jurisdictions:
- The District of Columbia
- Virginia: City of Alexandria, City of Falls Church, Fairfax County, Fauquier County, Loudoun County, Prince William County
- Maryland: Frederick County, Montgomery County, and Prince George's County
Get a Library Card
You can get a library card at any Arlington Public Library location, or you can apply online now. You'll need to bring one form of identification & one proof of residential address on your first visit to the library (see table below).
Renew Your Library Card
Have you had a library card in the past? As of July 1, 2024, Library cards are valid for a three-year period, and must be renewed in person at any open Library location.
Visit the library with ID and proof of local address to verify your account. You may be issued a new plastic library card and new library card number, depending on the age of your card.
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Accepted Forms of Identification |
Accepted Proof of Address |
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Driver's License |
Driver's License |
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State Issued Identification Card |
State Issued Identification Card |
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Passport |
Postmarked Mail |
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School Identification Card |
Current School Registration, Class Schedule or Report Card |
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Voter's Registration Card |
Voter's Registration Card |
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Federal, State or County Employee Identification Badges |
Bank Statement or Checkbook |
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Digital ID |
Lease Agreement or Mortgage Paperwork |
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Vehicle Registration |
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DMV Update Card |
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Recent Utility Bill |
Note: We now accept electronic forms of proof of address (examples: PDF of mortgage or lease forms, online bank or credit card statement, etc.).
Special Library Cards
Child Cards - For kids age two to 13. Child Library Card Application [PDF].
- When applying, children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian with a valid Arlington library card or another acceptable form of ID.
- Parents/guardians are responsible for helping children return books on time and arranging to pay for lost or damaged items.
Teacher Cards - For teachers who live or teach within Arlington County.
- Valid for one-year
- 6-week checkout, no renewals
- Cannot check Holiday Books, DVDs, Storytime Kits, Magazines, or non-YS materials
Available to:
- Residents of Arlington County who are teachers
- Residents in one of our reciprocal borrowing areas who teach in Arlington
Apply for a Teacher Card at any Library location with evidence of school employment (pay stub, staff badge, etc.) and a valid, personal Arlington Library card, with no fines or fees.