Get a Library Card
There are two ways to get a library card at Tacoma Public Library:
Option1: Visit any Tacoma Public Library location during regular service hours to get a physical library card. Bring your photo ID (if your photo ID does not have your current residential address, please bring any official document or piece of mail with your name and current residential address).
Or,
Option 2: Apply for a Tacoma or Neighbor card online. Our online form creates instant access for Tacoma residents and reciprocal borrowers for partner library systems. Paid, Community, and Quick cards are not available online.
Library Card FAQs
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We apologize for the inconvenience, but you will likely need to visit a branch to get your library card. Military addresses (APO/FPO/DPO) do not conform to typical street address formats. In addition, the exact physical location on the base is often not publicly available for security reasons. As commercial databases, like the one used in our form, are designed for standard U.S. addresses they may not be able to match your JBLM address.
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We have reciprocal agreements in place with a number of nearby library systems which allow patrons of those libraries to get a free Tacoma Public Library card. If you have a card from one of the following libraries, you may be eligible for a Neighbor card.
- King County Library System, opens a new window (must present your valid KCLS card, photo ID, and proof of residence in King County, not including Hunts Point or Yarrow Point)
- Pierce County Library System, opens a new window (eligible if you live in Pierce County, not including the cities of Carbonado, Fircrest, Roy, or Ruston, must present photo ID and proof of address)
- Puyallup Public Library, opens a new window
- Seattle Public Library, opens a new window
Tacoma residents are also eligible to get cards with the library systems listed above. Please contact those libraries directly for more information.
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- Tacoma Public Schools students are automatically assigned a Pathway card unless they opt out.
- With accepted ID (link to other FAQ), youth can qualify for a Tacoma Card.
- Without ID, youth may instead qualify for a Quick Card.
- If a youth wants a Tacoma Card but lacks ID, a parent/guardian signer is required.
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- Photo ID such as Student ID, driver’s license, passport, military ID, DOC ID, gym membership, etc.
- Proof of Address such as physical bill, rental agreement, property tax statement, or electronic bill with name/address.
- No ID/Proof? Patrons may receive a Quick Card and upgrade later when documents are provided.
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- Residents of Roy, Fircrest, Ruston, Carbonado, or other nearby localities without a library may purchase a Paid Card.
- Current fees: $39 for 6 months or $78 for 12 months (rates are recalculated annually and subject to change).
- Each family member must purchase their own card.