First Day of National Library Card Sign-Up Month – Your Librar Card Can Save You $400+ a Year
Save $400+ Per Year with a Free Library Card!
September is National Library Card Sign-Up Month! Stop by any of Kent County Public Library’s three locations and learn how a library card can change your life. On average, a library user who borrows 2-3 items per month from their public library can save over $400 per year compared to buying those items. To figure out how much a library card could save your household, check out the American Library Association's Value Calculator.
Kent County Public Library Can Help You Save Money
You know that libraries have books, but that’s just the start of what you can borrow at KCPL. You can also check out video games, graphic novels, activity kits, board games, magazines, and more – all for free!
With a KCPL library card you also get free access to the eLibrary, where you can borrow eBooks, eAudiobooks, and digital magazines, as well as accessing services that include:
- Thousands of online classes, including courses that support a variety of certifications
- Live online tutors who provide sessions for kindergarten through college students
- An app to help you learn a new language
- Test prep and practice tests for GED, college & military entrance exams, and career certification tests
- Family history and genealogy search tools
Signing Up for a KCPL Library Card is Easy
A KCPL library card is free for Maryland residents, including current Washington College students. Non-residents can get a card for a $10 annual fee.
To apply, you will need:
- Current valid photo ID
- Proof of current address or documentation of no fixed address
A parent or guardian must co-sign for library users under age 18.
Apply for temporary limited-access card online or stop by any KCPL location to fill out an application and start borrowing materials immediately.
Use Your KCPL Library Card at Other Libraries, Too
KCPL is part of the Eastern Shore Regional Library Consortium, which includes public libraries in Caroline, Dorchester, Kent, Somerset, Talbot, Queen Anne’s, Wicomico, and Worcester. This means that you can use your KCPL at all public libraries in these counties or, if you already have a library card from one of these other library systems, you can use it at KCPL – no new card needed.
KCPL is a fine-free library, so we don’t charge overdue fees! While there are charges if items are lost, damaged, or not returned, you don’t need to worry about bringing things back a little later than your due date. Plus, you can sign up for email reminders to help you remember due dates.
If you’re looking for a book that isn’t in our catalog, we can often borrow it for you from another library in the state or even from outside of Maryland. We can’t guarantee your request will be filled, but it never hurts to ask and we’ll do our best to find what you need.
But Wait, There’s More!
Whether you have a library card or not, you can also take advantage of free programs for all ages and many other services, including WiFi, printing, public computers, quiet study spaces, local newspapers, reading recommendations, help with technology, welcoming community spaces, and more.
We look forward to your next visit!