Get Your Personal Library Card
What You Need
- A Maryland state-issued ID or passport
- Proof of a Maryland home, work, or school address (if not on your ID)
What to Know
- There is no charge to obtain a library card or replace a lost card. Please report lost or stolen cards immediately. The lost card will be deactivated, and a new card will be issued free of charge.
- You can view your library account online. You will need your library card barcode number and PIN (personal identification number).
- Parents or legal guardians are responsible for any overdue, lost, or damaged materials borrowed on their child’s or teen’s (17 years or younger) library card.
- Accounts are deleted after three years of inactivity.
Special Borrower Cards
Anyone, age 21+, who would like to borrow free tools and other items from the Elkridge Branch DIY Center must apply in person with a valid ID and sign a waiver.
All preschool, K-12 public, private school educators and post-secondary faculty members who teach in Howard County, as well as Howard County homeschool parents and guardians, are eligible for an A+ Educator Card.
Every K-12 student in Howard County Public School System automatically has a Library account. Click on the “Hi” logo on hcpss.me to access your information. Students may also apply for a personal library card.
An organizational loaning arrangement provides easy access to library materials. Any organization in Howard County that serves seniors, children, or persons with disabilities, including family child care homes, are eligible.
Any county resident may designate a person to borrow and return materials on their library card. The designated borrower will have access to the account holder’s borrowing information. The designated borrower must show photo ID when borrowing materials. Complete the Designated Borrower Application and apply at any Howard County Library System Branch.
Newsletter Subscriptions
Stay connected with our newsletters. Select the audience you would like to receive library updates on, or select a book genre for NextReads recommendations. Our newsletter will be delivered directly to your email inbox.
Newsletter Sign-Up