It's as Easy as 1-2-3

1. Resident Cards are free with proof of Duval County residence.
2. Show one piece of identification—for example, a driver’s license or permanent resident card.
3. If you’re a minor (under 18 years old), a parent or guardian must sign for you; they will be responsible for what you borrow. You will both need to bring one piece of identification.

Apply online (below) or in person at your nearest library location.

Either way you apply, you'll gain access to the full collection of books, DVDs, audiobooks, e-books, streaming movies and research databases! 

Added benefits include the use of public computers; meeting or study room space; free in-person and online programs for children, teens and adults; and G.E.D. Test Prep® and English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) classes from the Center for Adult Learning. 

Learn more about the benefits of getting a library card, borrowing limits for library materials, checkout periods, and other common questions new cardholders ask on our welcome page for new cardholders. 

Need a card right now?

Fill out the online card application below and start enjoying free e-books, magazines, audiobooks, streaming movies and more – instantly – on your favorite phone, e-reader, tablet or computer.

You'll use your card number and the PIN you created (below) when you sign in to our Digital Library apps. You can also use that card number to check out books, use public computers, and do everything else you can do with a physical card you apply for at the Library. They are exactly the same. If you ever do want a plastic card, just stop by for a free "replacement."

Jax Library App Users Can Add Their Library Card to Their Digital Wallet

Save your library card number to your mobile device and stay ready to check out great books.

Options for Guests and Nonresidents

With a free Connect Card, you can access public computers (including scanning photos and transferring VHS to digital format in the Memory Lab), study rooms, research databases, and many of the same privileges enjoyed by Resident Cardholders. However, Connect Cardholders cannot check out physical or digital items.

If you're a nonresident and you want to use Digital Library apps or check out books, DVDs, etc., you'll need a Nonresident Card. For more information, including associated fees, read library policies. 

Note: Out-of-county residents must visit the library in person to sign up for a card.

Stress-Free Borrowing

We are now overdue fine-free! That means there are no overdue fines for materials borrowed and returned to Jacksonville Public Library. If you get a little off schedule, don't worry. We've got your back! Borrowed materials still have due dates and lost or damaged items still incur replacement fees. This just gives you a little cushion when things don’t go as planned.

Not only that, all physical items you've borrowed from Jacksonville Public Library that are eligible for renewal will be automatically renewed three days before the due date (up to five times). You'll receive a courtesy notification in your email inbox about renewals and any items that can't be renewed. 

Still Have Questions?

Call us at (904) 255-2665.

Apply for a Resident Card Online

Note: If you already have a library card with us, you don't need to apply for a card online to enjoy the Digital Library. You already have access to everything! If you lost your card (and need a replacement), there's no need to apply again! Just stop in. Replacement cards are free!