Long Beach Public Library has revised its circulation policy, making it easier than ever for California residents to register for a library card. Beginning May 3, 2022, residents may qualify for a full-service Long Beach Public Library (Library) card by presenting a picture identification (ID) and proof of California mailing address. A full-service card allows users to enjoy the maximum cardholder benefits, such as checkouts, instant access to all resources in the Digital Library, access to public computers and printing services, Chromebook and Mifi hotspot borrowing, participation in the ZipBooks program, and checkout of California State Library Parks Passes.
“Our city’s award-winning library system has so many incredible resources for every resident,” said Mayor Robert Garcia. “A library card can connect you to amazing free services, from downloading an audiobook on your phone, to homework and resume assistance, to joining a book club.”
The Library’s updated policy expands the acceptable forms of picture IDs, required for a full-service Library card, to include any U.S. state driver’s license or ID card, U.S. passport, Military identification, U.S. permanent resident card, work or student visa, foreign consulate ID card, or foreign passport. Residents who are not able to provide a qualifying picture ID and proof of mailing address may still register for alternative library card options, such as limited-use and computer-use only cards.
“The revised policy is significant progress toward addressing equity in library service delivery and eliminating barriers that some Long Beach residents may face when trying to make full use of all our programs and services,” said Christine Hertzel, Acting Library Services Director. “The Library is excited to introduce these changes and we look forward to reviewing other ways we might expand access to all Long Beach communities.”
The updated circulation policy also increases the number of items that may be borrowed at one time. Also beginning May 3, all full-access Library cardholders may borrow up to 50 items at a time, which is a 100 percent increase over the current limit. As part of the 50-item limit, borrowers may checkout up to 15 DVDs, 25 CDs, 25 audiobooks, 1 Chromebook and/or 1 Mifi device.
For more information about these changes or any other Library program or service, visit lbpl.org or call 562.570.7500 during open hours.