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Limitless possibilities start with Dallas Public Library

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Who can get a card?

A Dallas Public Library card is available at no cost to anyone who lives or teaches at or attends school in an educational institution within City of Dallas city limits. Educational institutions include public schools, charter schools, private schools, community colleges, colleges and universities, etc. A library card is also available to City of Dallas employees.


How Can I Get a Card?

To receive your library card, visit any of Dallas Public Library’s locations with a government-issued photo identification, which has your current address. If your ID does not show your current address, please bring two forms of identification: one to prove your identity with a photo and one to show your place of residence. Click here for a complete list of accepted forms of ID and address verification. Examples include:

  • driver's license
  • voter’s registration card (current)
  • lease agreement (current)
  • vehicle insurance (current)
  • passport
  • checkbook
  • online bill
  • current mail with physical address (within last 30 days). Mail must be typewritten or computer-generated
  • letter on letterhead from a shelter

Click here to register for a library card.


Enhanced Library Card

The Enhanced Library Card is a document with your name and picture that may possibly be used as a supplement with other documents to prove your identity and residency. You will need to check with organizations/entities with which you would like to use the Enhanced Library Card as part of establishing your identity to determine if/how the Enhanced Library Card can be used for this purpose.

More information about the Enhanced Library Card


Cards for children

Children can receive a library card when visiting their local branch with a parent or guardian. The parent/guardian must present two forms of identification (outlined above) or the child's report card and/or ID (valid for schools within the City of Dallas only). The child does not need to be present if the guardian has the child's school registration, birth certificate, or other means of identification.


Cards for teens

Teenagers 14 and up may apply for their own library card with a current school ID (valid for schools within the City of Dallas only) or government ID.


Company Cards

Company cards are available to businesses located within the City of Dallas. Please download the application form, and print on company letterhead which includes the company’s street address and phone number.