Anyone who resides, works, pays property taxes or attends school in the District of Columbia can get a card. Library cards expire after three years.
If you are a resident of one of the following counties or cities you can get a DC Public Library Card for free:
Maryland
- Montgomery
- Prince George's
Virginia
- Fairfax
- Frederick County
- Loudoun
- Arlington
- Prince William
- Falls Church
- Alexandria
The DC Public Library is not permitted to issue cards online to those outside of our service area (D.C., Maryland and Virginia).
For Out of Area
If you live outside these areas, you may apply for a regular library card by visiting any library location in person. The cost is $20 and the card is good for one year.
For Educators
Educators in District of Columbia schools, childcare facilities or home settings can supplement their curriculum with an abundant, ever-changing supply of books and audiobooks on a range of subjects and reading levels.