Library Cards are free of charge, and allow you to :
How do I get a library card?
You may apply for a library card at any of our Bellingham Public Library locations. You may print out the application here to fill out and bring into the library.
What do I need to get a library card?
You will need to prove that you live, own property or work in Whatcom County. A student enrolled in any of the Whatcom County colleges may qualify upon proof of enrollment. We will accept:
Picture ID with Whatcom County address verification, or
Official verification of Whatcom County address
Whatcom County Library System cards are valid at all Bellingham Public Library locations. Bellingham Public Library Cards are valid at any branch of the Whatcom County Library System. (Exception: remote access to subscription databases is limited to the card you have, either BPL or WCLS).
All borrowers are responsible for anything checked out on their cards. If a card is lost or stolen, the borrower is no longer responsible for its use from the date the loss is reported. Anything checked out on a lost or stolen card prior to its being reported lost is still the responsibility of the borrower up to a maximum liability of $50.00.
There is a $1 fee to replace a Bellingham Public Library card.
Anyone who lives, works, or attends school in Whatcom County may be eligible to apply for a library card at any public or academic library in Whatcom County. See Whatcom Libraries Cooperate - Library One Card for more information.
Youth may get a library card beginning at birth. A parent's or legal guardian's signature is required for applicants under 18. Address verification of the parent/guardian is necessary for a child to obtain a library card. Examples of verification are:
The parent/guardian assumes responsibility for materials borrowed on the card. Young people are welcome to use the library's entire collection, subject only to the parent's guidance.
Persons not eligible for library card may purchase a card by paying a fee of $52.00 per year (senior citizens, 65+, pay one-half the fee). The nonresident fee is adjusted each January to reflect the actual per capita cost of library service for residents. Payments are not accepted for less than a year and there is no rebate for any unused portion of the time. (See also section on "Visitor".) Nonresident borrowers and their immediate families residing at the same address are entitled to use the card for their personal use. The nonresident library card will automatically expire in one year.
A person living outside Whatcom County, wishing to use the library for a short term period may have limited borrowing privileges upon paying a fee of $5.00 per month. Local History material, reference books, or motor manuals are not included except by special permission.
An organization or agency may acquire a special library card under the current rules and regulations in effect for individuals.
a. The individual who is legally authorized to enter into contractual obligations for that agency will sign and be responsible for use of the card.
b. The card must be presented at the time of each loan, and the Library will assume the card-holder is authorized by the agency to borrow materials. No items will be loaned without presenting the card.
c. A maximum of two cards will be allowed per agency.