If you live within the City limits:
- Bring in your valid photo ID, showing your current address within the city limits, and we'll make you a card (or begin the process by clicking the Application Form button at the bottom of this page).
- If your ID does not show your correct address, please provide a current utility bill, bank statement, or another similar document with your name and address to document residency.
- Your library card will be good for 3 years and can be renewed by showing an ID with the same address.
If you live outside of the City limits:
- If you live in Edwardsville School District #7, but outside of the city limits of Edwardsville, you will pay a yearly fee that is equivalent to the amount of library taxes you would pay if you lived within the city limits.
- What you'll need to get a 1-year non-resident library card:
- If you own your property: bring in your valid photo ID. We will look up the taxable value of your property on the Madison County Treasurer's website. If you have a paper copy of your most recent tax bill, bringing it in can expedite the process in case the site is down. We use the taxable value of your property to determine your cost.
- If you rent: Bring in your valid photo ID and a signed copy of your lease. Your annual fee will be 10% of your monthly rent (minimum annual fee $25.00)
- If you own your property: bring in your valid photo ID. We will look up the taxable value of your property on the Madison County Treasurer's website. If you have a paper copy of your most recent tax bill, bringing it in can expedite the process in case the site is down. We use the taxable value of your property to determine your cost.
If you own property within the City limits but live elsewhere:
- Bring in your valid photo ID and proof of ownership of the property and we'll make you a card.
- You can bring in the deed to your property as proof of ownership or we can look it up on the Madison County Treasurer's website.
- Your library card will be good for 3 years and can be renewed by showing proof of ownership of the property.
If you attend SIUE:
- Students who live on campus can get a library card by showing a photo ID. We will verify your residency against the SIUE housing roster.
- If you live off campus see the guidelines above for those who live within and outside of the city limits.
If you are a District 7 student:
- All current District 7 students (regardless of address) are automatically given a public library account.
- Bring in your student ID.
- If you want an actual card, we can make one for you!
- Student accounts allow each student to use our online resources, and check out up to 5 items at a time.
Other Fee Exemptions:
- Those Who Own, Lease, or Administer Taxable Property within the City Limits
- Qualified Veterans with a service-connected disability of at least 70%
- Income Eligible Children (those who don’t attend District 7 schools, and who qualify for SNAP or TANF benefits)
- See attached for further details and required documentation.
Other Fee Exemption Details & Requirements
Fill out this form to get started:
Application FormIf you don't see your situation described here or have any other questions:
Contact Us!