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
How do I get a 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.
|
Identification |
Proof of Address |
|
Driver's License |
Postmarked Mail |
|
State Issued Identification Card |
Bank Statement or Checkbook |
|
Passport |
Lease Agreement or Mortgage Paperwork |
|
School Identification Card |
Current Class Schedule or Report Card |
|
Voter's Registration Card |
Voter's Registration Card |
COVID-19 Note
Normally, library cards are valid for a two-year period and must be renewed in person at the library. When a library card expires, the account is blocked until it can be renewed. You will be asked to provide photo identification or proof of address to renew your card.
Currently, Library cards are being renewed automatically by Library staff.
Children's Library Cards
At what age can a child get a library card?
Children age two to 13 are eligible for their own library cards. 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. Print a Child Library Card Application.
COVID-19 Note
At this time, parents may apply online for cards on behalf of their child. Please fill out the online form using the child's name and birthdate.
Teacher Cards
The Teacher Loan Program is available to teachers who live or teach within the county, to borrow children's and young adult materials for classroom activities.
Who is eligible?
- Residents of Arlington County who are teachers
- Residents in one of our reciprocal borrowing areas who teach in Arlington
How do I get a card?
You can get a Teacher Card at any Arlington Public Library location. You'll need to bring the following forms of identification:
- Evidence of school employment (pay stub, staff badge, etc.)
- A valid, personal Arlington Library card, with no fines or fees
How does a Teacher Card work?
- Valid for one-year
- 6-week checkout, no renewals
- Cannot check Holiday Books, DVDs, Storytime Kits, Magazines, or non-YS materials
