Library cards are free for ...
- Detroit and Highland Park residents
- Detroit students, teachers and educators
- City of Detroit employees
- Detroit business owners and property owners
A library card allows you to check out books, stream movies and music, borrow laptops and hotspots, and more! You can still access many library services, such as events, classes, and librarian assistance, without a library card.
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How to Get a Library Card
Detroit and Highland Park Residents
If you live in Detroit or Highland Park, you can get a free library card. Bring in ...
- A valid photo ID (Driver's License, Detroit ID, State ID, or Passport)
- If your photo ID does not show your current address, please also bring proof of residency (e.g. a current utility bill or rental agreement in your name)
Visit any library location to get your free library card!
Detroit Students
If you go to school in Detroit, you can also get a free library card, even if you don’t live in the city. This applies to public and private schools, pre-kindergarten to university, located in Detroit.
- Students under 18: Bring proof of current enrollment to any library location and fill out a library card application with an adult signature.
- Adult students: Bring a valid student ID or proof of current enrollment to any library location.
Educational Institution & City of Detroit Employees
If you work for a university, high school, middle school, elementary school, or preschool located in Detroit or if you work for the City of Detroit, you are now also eligible for a free library card! Visit any library location with your Driver’s License or State ID and proof of current employment to obtain a library card the same day.
Not a Resident, Student, or Eligible Employee?
- Property owners in the city of Detroit are now also eligible for a free library card, even if you are not a city resident. Visit any library location with your Driver’s License or State ID to verify your identity. With your property address, we can look up your tax record to verify property ownership, and you can receive your card the same day.
- Businesses located in Detroit can request a free company card to borrow library materials. Learn how to request a company card.
- MILibraryCard holders can borrow print items from DPL for free. This does not apply to electronic or online resources, such as Hoopla or Libby. View list of participating libraries here.
- Non-residents may obtain a library card with full benefits for an annual fee of $150 per person or household.
- Learn more about non-resident options for library cards.
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Library Card FAQs
Where can I borrow and return materials?
With a library card, you can borrow materials from any Detroit Public Library location. You can also request a hold on a material from any DPL location and pick it up at your local branch! Materials may be returned to any library location. All locations have a drop box for after-hours returns. Laptops and hotspots may only be returned inside the original lending location during library hours.
Are there any fees?
DPL does not charge overdue fines! However, when an item is overdue, you will not be able to check out additional items or access online resources. At 90 days overdue, an item is considered lost. The replacement cost for the lost item and a $10.00 processing fee are charged to your account. Once lost items are returned, all fees are forgiven. A replacement card is $1.00.
How can I manage my renewals, holds, and more?
You can manage your renewals, place and cancel holds, and more using your online account or asking a librarian for assistance. Items that are not on hold for another customer may be renewed up to three times.
If you've forgotten your account PIN or need help accessing your account, please call 313-481-1378.
