September is Library Card Sign-up Month, and we want to make sure you know that securing your very own Free Library of Philadelphia library card is both easy and valuable!
You can sign up online, or sign up in person at any of the 54 neighborhood libraries around the city. Anyone who lives, works, pays taxes, or attends school in the city of Philadelphia is eligible for a Free Library card, as is anyone who lives in the state of Pennsylvania. Out-of-state residents can obtain a card by paying an annual fee of $50 (must be paid with a credit card following completion of the online application).
Your Free Library card gives you access to thousands of books, DVDs, CDs, and other research materials, as well as access to our collections of downloadable media, online databases, and so much more! In fact, there are a few things you can do with a Free Library card that just may surprise you:
- Stream movies, television shows, music, audiobooks, and graphic novels directly to your computer or mobile device using Hoopla
- Read and download your favorite magazines online using Zinio
- Learn a new language (or brush up on an old one) using Mango Languages
- Sign in to Brainfuse to interface with a tutor and get homework help
- Access books and other resources that the Free Library doesn’t have, through our Interlibrary Loan program
Coming Soon!
Always wanted to learn to play an instrument? Just want to fine tune your skills? The Music Department at Parkway Central Library is rolling out a Musical Instrument Collection (MIC) lending service, allowing patrons to check out an instrument and related instructional materials just as they would a book or movie! Stay tuned for more details!
Also, be sure to stay connected to the Free Library on social media this month, as we’ll be sharing some fun facts about library cards and the resources you can take advantage of!
When you get your card, snap a selfie with it and tag us using the #LibraryCardSignUp hashtag so we can share in the excitement!
Have a question for Free Library staff? Please submit it to our Ask a Librarian page and receive a response within two business days.