Purpose
This policy defines the rules and responsibilities for obtaining a library card, borrowing materials, and accessing online subscription products from the Library. It establishes a fair, efficient and sustainable system to support access to Library resources.
NOTE: A library card is not required for on-site use of library materials, including subscription products, or for participation in Library programs or events.
I. Library Card Eligibility, Registration & Renewal
To borrow materials from the Detroit Public Library (DPL), customers must have a valid library card. Library cards can be obtained by applying in person at any DPL service location.
A. Eligibility:
- Residents of Detroit or Highland Park
- Owners of property in Detroit
- Students, teachers and other employees of a public or private preK-12th grade school, college or university in Detroit
- Employees of the City of Detroit
- Companies located in Detroit (for business purposes only)
- Members of the Detroit Library Commission
- Employees of the Detroit Public Library
- Members of communities that have a reciprocal borrowing agreement with the Detroit Library Commission, subject to the terms and conditions outlined in the agreement.
- Other individuals and companies for an annual fee of $150.
B. Registration:
- Applicants must present current (unexpired) government-issued photo ID and proof of eligibility under one of the categories listed above. A list of acceptable documents is available to the public online and in print at all DPL service locations.
- A card with restricted privileges may be granted to Detroit and Highland Park residents who are unable to meet the documentary requirements. Terms for obtaining a restricted card are available online and in print.
- Applications for minors ages 0-17 require the valid identification and written consent of a parent or guardian.
- Registration may also be completed through a collaborative process with classroom teachers, schools, or school districts. These partners verify the student’s identity, obtain parental permission for minors, and provide the necessary personal information to facilitate library card issuance.
C. Expiration & Renewal:
Customers can renew their cards by repeating the registration process outlined above.
- Restricted cards expire at 3 months and may be renewed at a librarian’s discretion.
- Non-resident and company cards expire at one year.
- Cards created in partnership with school groups expire on December 31st of the following academic year.
- Other cards expire two years from the date they were issued or last renewed.
II. Terms of Use
- A) Only the person issued the library card may check out materials and use a public computer with that card.
- B) Customers are responsible for all items checked out on their card. Parents are responsible for items checked out on their children’s card.
- C) Parents are responsible for their child’s choice and use of library resources (including the internet) using their card.
- D) Customers agree to return borrowed items in same condition as when borrowed and by or before their due date.
- E) Customers who have an overdue item may not renew it, check out additional items, or use their library card to access a public computer until the overdue item is returned or a replacement fee is paid.
- F) Damaged or lost items are charged at replacement cost plus a processing fee. Items are considered lost at 90 days overdue.
- G) Misuse of the library card (e.g., falsifying ID, sharing accounts irresponsibly) may result in suspension of card privileges.
- H) Cardholders agree to abide by the Library’s Guidelines for Customer Behavior.
III. Borrowing Privileges
- A) Library materials are available for check out with the exception of materials designated as non-circulating.
- B) Hold and loan periods, renewal options, and item limits are set based on the item type’s availability, typical use, and current demand. A schedule of these policies is available to customers online and at the point of checkout.
- C) Customers receive information regarding due dates of materials at the time of check out.
- D) Youth cards (for ages 0-17) cannot be used to check out R and X-rated media (video, DVDs, Blu-Rays, etc.)
See also:
Approved 06/15/2004, rev. 12/16/2025