Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get a library card?

Anyone who lives, attends school, works at a school, or pays property taxes in Oklahoma City or Oklahoma County can receive a Metropolitan Library System card for free. If you meet one of these qualifications, you can apply for a card online (and begin using it immediately) or you can apply for a card at any Metro Library location. If you apply for a card online, you will not be issued a physical card unless you visit a Metro Library location and ask for one.

Anyone enrolled in Oklahoma City Public Schools can use their student ID to access Metro Library resources. Additionally, anyone who lives, works, or attends school in Cleveland County, McClain County, or Pottawatomie County or students who live in Grady County and attend school in the Blanchard School district can receive a Metropolitan Library System card for free. If you meet one of these qualifications, you can apply for a card online (and begin using it immediately) or you can apply for a card at any Metro Library location. To apply in person, please bring proof of ID, including proof of current address (an up-to-date driver's license would satisfy both requirements). Parents or guardians must provide address verification for minors (16 and under). Examples of acceptable identification:

• Any photo ID issued by the U.S. Federal, Tribal, or any State Government (examples include a driver’s license, Tribal ID, current passport, green card, state employee ID card)
• Birth Certificate
• Current vehicle insurance verification form
• Student ID card with a photo of the student on it
• Acceptable evidence of current school, college, or university enrollment or employment (examples include an official transcript or registrar’s receipt for students; examples for staff include a pay stub or staff ID card)
• Social Security card
• Medicare or other medical plan card
• Current credit card
• Military ID card; include rank and serial number on the application
• Voter registration card
• Personal check with printed name
• Parent or guardian’s identification for students under age 17 who are unable to provide proof of eligibility, provided the parent or guardian meets eligibility requirements
• Oklahoma County ad valorem property tax statement
• Utility bills or receipts postmarked within 30 days
• Copy of current lease
• Mortgage paperwork within 90 days of notarization

We have various types of library cards. Learn which one is right for you.

Primary Card
If you live in or own property in Oklahoma City or Oklahoma County, you can get a card for free. If you are 16 or younger, a parent or guardian must be present to co-sign the application and card.

ONEcard
If you are a student in Oklahoma City Public Schools, you are eligible for a free card and can use your student ID to access Metro Library resources. Note: a physical card will not be issued.

Reciprocal Card
If you live, work, or attend school in Cleveland, McClain or Pottawatomie counties or are a Blanchard school district student living in Grady County, you can also get a Metro Library card for free.

School Card
Students and school employees who do not qualify for a primary or reciprocal card may be eligible for a school card if their school is physically located in Oklahoma City or Oklahoma County. School cards are valid for 1 year, and eligibility must be verified annually. School cards provide access to all Metro Library services except interlibrary loan. Students must present proof of enrollment, and teachers must present proof of employment.

Annual Fee Card
If you don't meet the qualifications for one of the cards listed above and you live in Oklahoma, you can purchase an annual fee card for $70 per year.  This fee also allows your immediate family members living in the same household to have their own library accounts at no additional cost.  If you use our library value calculator to tally the cost of purchasing books, CDs, magazines, music, DVDs, eBooks, eAudiobooks, newspapers, and internet access, you will see the value of the $70 fee. You can apply for a card in person at any Metro Library or by contacting us.

Internet Access Card
If you're a visitor to our system or are otherwise unable to show proof of residence, you can request an internet access card which provides access to the public computers.

Note: If you are a resident of Oklahoma County and are 65 years or older or completely homebound, you might be eligible for our Library by Mail service. Call 405-606-3295 to consult with the Library by Mail specialist to determine your eligibility.