What documents are required to get a Library Card?

Last Updated: Sep 11, 2025 Views: 160691

Address Verification (must include name and California residential address).

Mail postmarked within the last 30 days
Current utility bill within last 30 days (may be presented in paper or on a digital device)
An imprinted bank check or deposit slip
Current rent receipt, lease agreement, or mortgage statement (confirming 30 day occupancy)
Bank statement (current within 30 days)
Paycheck statement (current within 30 days)
Welcome Postcard provided by patron with recent postmark

Adult	CA resident age 19-64 who meets the ID requirement.
Teen	CA resident age 13-18 who meets the ID requirement OR has a parent/guardian sign the application.
Juvenile	CA resident age 0-12 with application signed by a parent/guardian.
Welcome	CA resident who can verify name with an item from list #1 above, has full access to computers and online resources and may borrow one physical item at a time (card is valid for 4 years and may be renewed).
Digital Access	CA resident who cannot verify name, has full access to computers and online resources but may not borrow physical items (card is valid for 1 year and may be renewed).
Home Library Services	San Francisco residents with a permanent/long-term disability can apply to authorize a caregiver to use your library card on your behalf, or use Library by Mail to borrow and return via the US Postal Service for free.
Visitor	Visitors from outside of CA with a valid photo ID, must provide a temporary California address and pay a $10 fee (card is valid for 3 months and may be renewed with an additional fee).
Teacher	Teachers who live or work in San Francisco, must show a valid photo ID and proof of current teacher status (card valid for 1 year and may be renewed by showing proof of current teacher status).