Mobile Alabama Public Library Getting a Library Card

How to Get a Library Card

Present a completed application form and one piece of positive ID with your current permanent home address at the check-out desk of any Mobile Public Library location or on the Bookmobile.

Examples of ID we accept are a drivers license or non-drivers ID, recent utility bill with your current name and street address, check book with imprinted checks, voter registration card with street address, property deed, rent receipt with your name and address, business license, and current military personnel or military dependent identification card.

For children ages 12 and under, a parent or legal guardian must sign, giving permission for the child to have a library card and agreeing to be responsible for the valid use of the card and the safe and timely return of materials checked out by the child. Teens, ages 13-17 years old, may use their own identification to obtain a card.

Your library card is issued the same day you apply. It entitles you to borrow and renew materials at any of the MPL branches. Your borrowing privileges are updated annually. You will continue to use the same card until it needs replacement due to wear.

Free borrowers cards are available to anyone who owns property or permanently resides in Mobile County, has a Mobile County business license, or is a student living in Mobile County to attend a college or university.

Mobile Public Library is now offering free library cards to our neighbors in the following Southern Alabama counties: Baldwin, Washington, Clarke, Monroe, Escambia and Conecuh. This is an effort by Mobile Public Library to support regional economic development and educational enhancement in addition to providing Internet access and a full range of services to adults and children. A $20 per year fee is charged for residents outside this area.

Check out periods for most items are 28 days; DVD's, videogames and rental books check out for one week. Overdue fines are charged at $.25 per day up to a $5.00 maximum. Lost and damaged items are charged to your account based on replacement value.

For more information call (251)-208-7073 or click here to e-mail

Guidelines for Library Card Use Guard your MPL card like a credit card. It’s your link to the materials on your record, and you are responsible for anything borrowed on your card.

To insure its safe use:

Always present your library card at check-out time. Don’t loan your card to others.
Immediately report a stolen or lost card by calling (251) 208-7073 or c lick here to e-mail.
Lost, stolen or mutilated cards may be replaced by presenting a completed library card application and proper identification.
If you move, please let us know by calling (251) 208-7073 or click here to e-mail .
Return materials by the due date. If you receive an overdue notice after returning the materials, call your library to clear your record. You are responsible for reasonable charges incurred in the recovery of overdue material(s).