Library cards for residents

We accept several types of identification, as long as it confirms your information. You can use a:

• photo ID with your name and picture, or
• document that includes your name and address—such as, a piece of mail or current bill (printed or accessed online).

We're flexible with the requirements, and we understand that providing identification is not always possible. If you're in this situation, we encourage you to visit one of our branches to find out what options are available.

The best way to get a standard library card is to visit any of our locations in person.

Library cards for teachers and institutions

If you're a teacher, or work with groups, you can get an educational or institutional library card that allows you to keep work-related borrowing separate from the items that you borrow for personal use. The loan periods and fees are the same as with standard library cards.

Library cards for visitors

Are you coming from away? Maritimers are famed for their hospitality—and at Halifax Public Libraries, we're no exception.

Visitors can sign up for a temporary library card to borrow items and use our facilities.

Visitor library cards expire after 6 months and can be renewed once.

To get started, visit any of our locations in person. You'll need to:

• Bring one piece of identification
• Pay $40 in order to borrow items

If the account is closed within 90 days of its expiry date, all items are returned, and there are no fees remaining, we’ll refund you $20.