Library Cards

Register Online!

No time to come to the library to open an account? No problem. New users can register for a Tompkins County Public Library card online!

Getting a card is now as quick as a click of the mouse. Simply go to the Patron Account page, and choose "...click here to register now," which is located above the login area. Fill out the online form. You will have immediate access to many of TCPL’s databases. (Due to licensing restrictions, not all databases will be available to those with temporary cards.)

You will also be able to place holds on library materials that are currently checked out or located at other Finger Lakes Library System libraries. (We're sorry, but interlibrary loans - out-of-system requests using WorldCat (OCLC) - can not be placed until you have shown your identification and received your library card.)

After registering online, stop by the circulation desk within three months and show photo identification (with a current address or documentation showing your new address) or two non-photo IDs to receive your TCPL card.

Due to limitations with the software, you will not be able to register online for a TCPL card if you currently have a card at another library in the Finger Lakes Library System.

Library cards are free to the residents of the chartered service area of the Finger Lakes Library System, consisting of the counties of Tompkins, Cayuga, Cortland, Seneca, and Tioga, as well as those living in Schuyler County. An annual fee (currently $25.00), set by the Board of Trustees, shall be charged to all others requesting library cards. A parent or legal guardian must sign the application for young people 16 and under.

Please visit the Circulation desk to obtain a card or register online for a temporary card (see sidebar). Bring in identification, preferably photo ID, or two non-photo IDs. If your photo ID does not have your current address, bring in a document that includes it. For example, bring in a lease or piece of mail. With proper identification, you may receive library privileges immediately.

A parent or legal guardian must be present and sign the application for young people ages 16 and under. A child must be at least 2 years old to receive a library card.

Lost cards should be reported as soon as possible. A lost card can be replaced for $1.00. If you forget your card, you may still check out materials with proper ID, but your card will be considered lost until you produce both your card and your ID at the same time.

You may check out your own books using the library's self-check out stations. However, you must have your library card with you, and your account must be free of holds, overdue items, fines and other charges.

If a library card is not used in three years, it is automatically removed from the library’s database of users.