Library cards

Library cards are available to all Durham County residents free of charge. To get a card, come to any Durham County Library location (including the Bookmobile). You’ll need a photo ID and proof of address. That could be one item (like an NC driver’s license with your current address) or two separate items (like an employment ID plus a utility bill with your name and address on it). If you have questions about what documents will work, get in touch.

No one is too young or old to get a library card! However, children under 18 must have a parent or guardian present to get signed up for a full-privilege card.

Don’t live in Durham County? If you own property in Durham County, work for Durham County government, or work at Durham Public Schools, you can still get a card with no fee. Other non-residents can get a library card for a charge of $45.00 per year. Non-resident cards need to be renewed each year but otherwise work the same as a regular library card.

Want to know how your card works once you have it? Learn all the ins and outs of borrowing and accounts.

See all details about library cards in our library card registration policy.

Bull City, NC SLAM

Durham Public Schools students, teachers, and staff can also check out items through the Bull City, NC SLAM program. For students, you already have a SLAM ID unless you’ve opted out of the program. For teachers and staff, you can contact us to set up your account. Learn more about how Bull City, NC SLAM works.

Online cards

Can’t get to a library location right away? You can sign up for a temporary card online.

Institutional library cards

Child care programs, schools, prisons, nursing homes, and hospitals can get an institutional library card to help fulfill their institutions’ missions. Please fill out the Institutional Borrower’s Application (PDF). Bring the completed application to the checkout desk at any library location.

To learn more about institutional library cards, contact Outreach Services at 919-560-0155.