Q. Why do I have to visit in person to get a library card?

Due to licensing agreements with the vendors who provide our digital content, we are not able to issue library cards to people remotely unless you are a resident of the City and County of San Francisco who has a disability/long-term medical condition that prevents you from visiting the library.

All other applicants must visit us in-person to receive a library card.

Library cards are free to California residents.