Getting a Library Card

What's Required to Get a Library Card

In order to check out library materials or request items from other libraries, you must have a current library card.

If you have a card from another public library in Western Massachusetts that is a member of the Central/Western Massachusetts Automated Resource Sharing, Inc. (C/W MARS), you may use that card at the Jones Library and branches. This does not include College Libraries. Check this list of Western Massachusetts libraries or look for C/W MARS on the card.

You can apply for a card in the Front Office of the Jones Library or at the Circulation Desk at either branch library. To register you must:

1. fill out an application (The application can be printed and filled out ahead of time. Adobe Acrobat Reader is needed to read the file.)
2. present a photo ID, such as
   1. a driver's license,
   2. a passport, or
   3. school ID
3. present proof of current address, such as
   1. recently cancelled mail with current address,
   2. a driver's license with current address,
   3. pre-printed bank checks with current address,
   4. a lease,
   5. up-to-date car registration, or
   6. FID card.

Children must be at least 4 years old to register, and a parent or guardian must co-sign the application.

Library cards are free of charge to most Massachusetts residents. As of 3/1/05, residents of non-certified Massachsuetts towns and out-of-state residents pay $35.00 per year, payable to Jones Library, Inc.