Library Cards
Library Cards & Your Account
Library cards are available for free to permanent and temporary residents of California. With an LA County Library card, you can:
- check out books, magazines, and DVDs
- place holds and access your account online
- access library databases from home
- download audiobooks, books, and music
- use the Library’s public computers and internet
- connect to Wi-Fi at all LA County Library locations
Library Cards for Children and Teens
There is no minimum age requirement to apply for a library card. Children under 18 must have a parent or guardian sign their library card application. Parents/guardians can restrict their child from checking out DVDs. For a child to access the Internet, parents/guardians must be present and fill out an Internet Access Permission form. All fees related to lost or damaged items or lost library cards are the responsibility of the parent/guardian.
How to Get a PIN
A PIN allows you to place holds and access your account online, use the Library’s public computers, and use virtual Library resources. You are given a PIN when you first apply for a library card. If you have a library card but do not have a PIN or have forgotten it, you can request a PIN online or by calling any LA County Library location.
How to Access Your Account
You can access your library account by logging into the online catalog and clicking “My Account.” From here, you can:
Renew items, check due dates, and view fees
Check status of holds, cancel holds, change pickup location
Place a vacation hold by entering the dates you will be gone and we will delay your hold until you return
Update your address and phone number
Change your PIN
Update your email
How to Get a Library Card
To get a library card, fill out an application and bring it to any LA County Library location along with a valid ID. Cards are valid for three years and can be renewed by calling or visiting a library. If your library card is lost or stolen, report it immediately. Replacement cards cost $3.00.
Borrowing Materials
Visit this page for information about borrowing materials, placing holds, interlibrary loans, and fines & fees.
The Great Read Away
Fee Reduction for Library Cardholders
LA County Library cardholders 21 and under can get rid of library fees by reading them away! For every hour spent reading in the library, $5 in fees will be removed from your account. Click below for more information about this unique program.
Computer Cards
Customers who are ineligible for library cards (for example, people traveling from out of state), can apply for a computer card that allows them access to the Library’s public computers and Wi-Fi. Valid for one year.
