Who can get a New Orleans Public Library card?

Library cards are free for all Orleans Parish residents as well as those who currently have a valid library card from Jefferson and St. Bernard parishes.

What information is needed when applying for a Library card?

To receive a permanent Library card, an applicant should provide picture identification, such as a valid Louisiana Driver’s License or Louisiana State ID noting residency in Orleans, Jefferson or St. Bernard Parish. If the applicant has an out-of-state driver’s license or other photo ID (a local college student ID, for example), the photo ID must be accompanied by one of the following proofs of residence: voter’s registration card, lease or rent receipt, piece of mail delivered to applicant at applicant’s address, printed check, etc.

Can a person under age 18 apply for a card when the parent or guardian is not present?

• If the parent/guardian is unable to come to the Library, the underage applicant can sign up for a card with limited borrowing privileges of up to 5 items at a time and restricted access that excludes all digital materials available for check-out and any physical materials titles restricted under LA R.S. 25:225. A parent/guardian must come to the Library to register for a full privilege Library card.

• Whether the parent/guardian is present or not when the card is issued, they are responsible for materials borrowed by the child.

Are there any exceptions to the residency requirement?

• Active military personnel and their dependents are eligible for a Library card with full borrowing privileges. Applicants must provide military ID at any Library location to complete the application process.

• Students who attend Orleans Parish schools but don’t live in Orleans Parish are still eligible to get Library cards with proof of enrollment.

Are non-resident cards available?

• Persons who own property in New Orleans but who do not live in Orleans Parish can get a free New Orleans Public Library card by filling out a Library card application as a non-resident and supplying identification and proof of ownership of their Orleans Parish property (i.e. a property tax bill, mortgage statement, or deed). Visit any Library location to complete the application process.

• Non-Residents who do not own property in New Orleans can obtain a Library card in person at a Library location or online for the cost of $50.00 annually. Use our Ask A Librarian service or email circulationteam@nolalibrary.org for more information.

How many items can I check out on my card?

• The maximum number of cataloged items that can be checked out on your Library card is 30 items. These may include:

• Up to 30 books

• Up to 30 audio books

• Up to 30 DVDs

• Up to 30 music CDs

• Up to 10 downloadable titles on Libby by Overdrive

• Up to 7 mp3s per week on Freegal

• No limit on past issues of periodicals but current issues are for use in the Library only

What are the loan periods for Library materials?

• DVDs: 7 days

• Libby by Overdrive (downloadable) titles: 3 weeks

• Freegal music downloads: No return period

• Popular reading books: 2 weeks

• Most other circulating materials: 3 weeks

Are there differences in what adults and youth can check out?

• Adults (18 and up) may check out any circulating item.

• Youth (0 – 17) with unrestricted Library cards may check out any circulating item with the exception of unrated and R-rated DVDs. 

• As required by LA R.S. 25:225, we have a system to allow parents or guardians to restrict their children’s access to Library materials. You may need to speak to a librarian about permissions for your youth’s card.