How do I get a library card?

Come to any branch of the Marion County Public Library System and fill out an application for a library card. You will need to bring verification of mailing address. If these items have your current mailing address, they can be used to verify your mailing address: Florida driver license, Florida state identification card, utility or cable bill, checkbook, vehicle registration, Marion County health card, first class mail addressed to you, your listing in the current telephone book. If you are under 18, your parent or legal guardian must sign your library card application and select the kind of card you may have.

Are library cards free?

A Marion County Public Library System library card is free if you are a permanent or legal resident of Marion County, own property or a business in Marion County, work or go to school in Marion County. You may also get a free library card if you are a permanent or legal resident of one of these counties: Alachua, Citrus, Lake, and Levy. If you are not eligible for a free library card, you may purchase a non-resident card which will be good for a limited time.

Can I get a library card if I cannot verify my mailing address?

Yes, the library will mail the card to you to verify your address. You will be able to check out library materials after you receive your card in the mail.

What kind of library card can I get if I am under 18?

When your parent or legal guardian signs the library card application, they must also select what kind of card you will have. The card choices are: Unrestricted ( you can check out anything in the library that can be checked out), Title Restricted (your parent or legal guardian tells the library a few titles you cannot checkout), Collection Restricted (you can only check out items from the childrens collection), Collection and Sex Education Restricted (you can only check out items from the childrens collection and you cannot check out any sex education materials).

Can I check out items the day I get my library card?

Yes, you may check out two items on the day you get your library card.

Can I do anything else with my library card number and PIN besides looking at my account online?

Yes! With your library card number and PIN you can use online databases on the library website. You can look up information in magazines and newspapers, do genealogy research, use how-to databases on home repair, car and truck repair, and small engines, find out how much your antiques and collectibles are worth and do research for school.

How do I find out more information about library cards?

Ask questions about library cards at any library branch circulation desk. Or, call any branch library or call the Headquarters-Ocala library at 671-8551.

How long can I keep library items I check out?

When you check out library items you may keep most of them for three weeks. You may keep an item longer by renewing it for three more weeks. An item can be renewed if no one else is waiting to use it. If you keep a library item past its due date, you may have to pay a fine.

How can I get information about what I have checked out or on reserve or find out if I owe the library money?

You can access your library account online from the library website. You will need your library card and a PIN (Personal Identification Number). You can get a PIN in person at any library circulation desk. You can also telephone any library location, tell us your library card number, and verify your identity, and we can answer questions over the telephone. Or, stop by any library circulation desk with your library card or picture identification.

Where can I return library items I have checked out?

Library items can be returned to any Marion County Public Library System branch location. Most library branches have bookdrops for 24/7 returns. Bookdrops may be closed on holidays.

Can I check out library items if I owe the library money?

If you owe less than $10, you may pay at least $1 and check out two items. If you owe more than $10, you have to pay down the amount owed to less than $10 in order to check out library materials.

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Do you need more information? Call us at 671-8551 or visit the Marion County Public Library System branch nearest you. Our library staff will be pleased to answer your questions.


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Marion County Public Library System 2720 East Silver Springs Boulevard Ocala, FL 34470 (352) 671-8551