Applying for a Card
To obtain a library card Massachusetts residents must present photo identification showing both name and current address. If the photo ID lacks the current address, an additional document with name and current address (such as a utilities bill, automobile registration, or mail addressed to the applicant at their current address) is required.
Applicants for a library card must be at least 5 years old. In the case of children and teens under 18 years of age, proof of address of a parent or legal guardian is acceptable. Applicants who are 11 years old or under must have the permission of their parent or legal guardian. Parents registering minor children for a library card must also show their own ID. Out of State residents or residents without a fixed address will be granted a card at the Director’s discretion.
The first library card is issued free of charge. Replacement cards cost $2.00.
Library cards are usable at other public C/W MARS member libraries in Central and Western Massachusetts. If patrons already have a library card from another public C/W MARS member library, they may use it here.
Borrowing privileges at C/W MARS member libraries are determined by the patron’s residential address, not by the library where the card was obtained. Residents of communities with closed or decertified libraries cannot borrow or request materials from Levi Heywood Memorial Library.
Library cards are issued immediately upon completion of an application form and presentation of acceptable identification. Patrons may also register online for an e-card; address verification will be confirmed through the online portal. E-cards are only for online access, they may not be used to check out physical materials. An e-card may be upgraded to a full access library card by completing the process aforementioned. Library card expiration dates: Library cards are renewed every two years, and renewal can be done in person or online. At the time of renewal, borrower information is verified, and the card’s expiration date is extended.
Apply for an eCard and use it online today!
An eCard is a CW MARS library card that you can register for online to access electronic materials, such as ebooks, audiobooks, magazines, and databases. The eCard is for patrons who do not already have a CW MARS library card and may be upgraded to a physical library card with borrowing privileges by visiting your local library and providing proof of address.
Get a BPL ECARD
Anyone who lives, works, or goes to school in Massachusetts can register for a free Boston Public Library eCard at bpl.org/ecard and gain access to a wide range of digital resources covering newspapers, magazines, streaming media, genealogy, and more.
