New York City’s libraries provide free legal assistance, language learning programs, technology access, cultural events and more — all designed to help newcomers settle in and feel at home.
To unlock everything the library has to offer, you need a library card. With your card, you can borrow books, use computers, print, and access free activities — like homework help, art classes, or conversation groups where you can practice your English.
Also Read: How New York Libraries Can Help Immigrants For Free
How to get a library card
Applications are available at all library locations. To obtain a full-access physical library card, you must apply online and then visit a library branch in person to show a valid form of identification. Just talk to the librarian at the front desk, and they will get the process started.
Applying for an e-card online is also an option, though it comes with some limitations. For instance, an e-card does not grant access to physical books or to the Culture Pass, which activates free museum admissions for New York residents. Basically, you will need to talk to a librarian in person to get a fully activated library card.
It’s important to know that nobody will ask you about your immigration status when going to the library. Some libraries ask for proof of residence, which means any document that shows your name and a valid home address. It can be a bill, a bank statement, lease agreement, or a government-issued ID if it shows your local address. There may be fewer requirements for a child’s library card, depending on which borough you live in. We explain some of those differences below.
What is accepted as proof of identity will depend on which of the three New York City library systems you are applying to. We recommend you check their websites or call your local community library to confirm what is accepted.
Getting a library card if you live in Manhattan, the Bronx, or Staten Island
Apply online here or visit in person at any New York Public Library location or library-sponsored event in these boroughs.
Teens aged 13 to 17 do not need to show ID when verifying their applications for physical library cards. Learn more about teen library cards here.
If your New York State residency cannot be verified through the online form, you will receive a temporary library card that allows you to place holds on physical items. To complete the process and receive your library card, visit a branch or email gethelp@nypl.org.
Getting a library card if you live in Brooklyn
Check out the link to apply online, or you can visit at any Brooklyn Public Library location to get started with a library card.
For New Yorkers aged 13 to 17, identification is required, but proof of address is not. The following alternative forms of identification are accepted:
- Current school photo ID
- Current report card
- Working papers
- Other credible forms of identification as determined by library staff
At the New York and Brooklyn Public Library systems, if you are 13 or older you can apply for a digital card online with no proof of identification required. A digital card will have certain limitations compared to a physical card, such as restricted access to physical materials and Culture Pass benefits. It may also exclude access to computers or printing services.
If you are an adult, you have to provide proof of identity and proof of address in person at a Brooklyn library location to receive a physical library card.
Getting a library card if you live in Queens
Apply online through this link or in person at any Queens Library location. Adults and teens must present photo identification and proof of address.
For adults applying on behalf of children up to age 17, they need to show one of the following New York identifications:
- Current driver’s license
- Current photo learner’s permit
- Current non-driver’s identification
If these documents are unavailable, you can check more forms of identification here.
Adult residents of Queens can apply for a library card online, but must complete the process in person at a library branch. They will need to present a form of credible identification as proof of identity.
Other useful cards for immigrants in NYC
Culture pass
The Culture Pass is a service that allows library cardholders to visit over 100 museums, theaters, gardens, and more throughout the city for free.
To participate, you’ll need a library card from The New York Public Library, Brooklyn Public Library, or Queens Public Library.
You’ll need to make an online reservation to use Culture Pass and, depending on the venue, you can borrow more passes beyond you, for two adults or families of four.
Here’s a list of all the locations you can visit for free with your library card.
IDNYC – New York City municipal ID
The IDNYC is a complimentary municipal identification card offered to all residents of New York City, regardless of their immigration status. This card functions as an official photo ID, which means you can use it to access various city services, banking facilities, and discounts. Additionally, it provides free one-year memberships to many local museums and cultural institutions.
IDNYC has enrollment centers across the city to apply, including some libraries but you can also do it online here.
OMNY transit card
OMNY is the new way to pay for NYC public transit. Cards cost $5 and can be reloaded. The OMNY card has special options for reduced fares, students, and Fair Fares participants. Read our guide about how to apply for the OMNY transit card.
