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.

Who can apply for a Library card online?

Adults (age 18+) who live in Orleans Parish can apply online for a digital Library card.

What information is needed when applying for a Library card in person?

To apply for a Library card in person, 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 do not live in Orleans Parish can get a free New Orleans Public Library card by filling out a Library card application 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.
• Persons who live in Jefferson or St. Bernard Parish can get a free New Orleans Public Library card if they provide identification, proof of residence, and a valid library card from Jefferson or St. Bernard Parish. Visit any Library location to complete the application process.
• Persons who do not own property in New Orleans or live in New Orleans can get a non-resident card if they are U.S. residents, provide identification, apply in person at a Library location, and pay the yearly fee of $100 for individuals and $150 for families. 

How many items can I check out on my card?

• 10 holds/10 checkouts on Libby by Overdrive*
• Up to 7 mp3s downloads and 6 hours of streaming per week on Freegal
• 20 instant borrows monthly and 5 flex borrows on Hoopla
• 36 tickets monthly through Kanopy

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.