Get a Library Card

Your Berks County Public Libraries (BCPL) card provides access to books and other materials from all member library locations in Berks County.

Library cards are available to all Pennsylvania residents. Anyone who lives, works, or goes to school in Berks County is eligible for a full-service library card. All other Pennsylvania residents will receive a limited-service card to borrow physical books and materials from member libraries. Full- and limited-service card outline available here.

Information about juvenile card access and borrowing experience options are noted below the online application links.

 

How to get a library card:

  • Visit any Berks County Public Libraries location and complete the registration form. Bring a valid photo ID. If you live outside of Berks but work or go to school in Berks County, you will be asked to provide information such as a paystub or current student ID.
  • Apply for a library card online by clicking a library location below. Anyone ages 18 and older can apply for a library card online. You'll be redirected to another page where you will need to enter in your information to begin the registration process. A library staff member will contact you within 7 business days with next steps. You will need to visit the library you selected in your application to complete the registration process and pick up your physical library card before receiving full access. Make sure to bring ID and proof of residency. Contact the library if you experience a problem with the online registration.

 

Juvenile Library Cards

BCPL member libraries and staff do not act on behalf of parents/legal guardians to restrict what a minor selects for reading, listening, viewing, and checking out when a parent/legal guardian is not present.

Here are ways you can be involved in your child's borrowing experience:

  • Visit the library with your child and choose books together.
  • Discuss books your child is reading or would like to read with them. This allows you to talk through difficult topics on your own terms.
  • Make sharing your child’s library card numbers and PIN a condition of applying for a library card, so both of you can view items checked out or requested on their card by logging into the account online.
  • Set up your child’s account so you receive email notifications when they check items out or request items at the library.
  • Use one card for your whole family to organize everything in one place.

As always, library staff are happy to answer questions parents/guardians may have about children’s rights to access materials in library collections. 

 

One card, endless possibilities!

  • Borrow items from our collective countywide catalog. A collection built by 23 libraries that is 900,000+ items strong and available to you.
  • Access research databases like MyHeritage, ValueLine, Gale Elementary, and more. Explore thousands of resource materials including newspapers, historical documents and photos, magazine, journals, and e-books with POWER Library—Pennsylvania's Electronic Library.
  • Download eBooks and eAudiobooks on your desktop or directly from your mobile device. Our one-click apps give you the freedom to read wherever you are, whenever you want. Items are returned automatically for worry-free borrowing. Your library, on the go.
  • Connect to the Internet with patron computers and wireless Internet accessibility. All of our libraries offer computer portals with broadband speed connectivity and free Wi-Fi. Find a library closest to you.
  • Experience a wide variety of programs and classes offered at each and every library location. Participate at any library near or far—it's all available to you. See our Events & Classes tab for upcoming programs at Berks County Public Libraries.