Answered By: Cathay
Last Updated: Mar 24, 2025     Views: 5441

Anyone can apply for a library card in person at any Sarasota County Library or online. 

Submit your library card application online: click here.
Successful applications will receive their library card number via email. Your address and identity have already been verified. With your library card number, you will have instant access to our resources in our digital library and library catalog. You will also receive a link to add your library card to your digital wallet and to use our Sarasota County Libraries app. You may also request a physical library card, and we will use your current library card number.

Some may receive an email that we need more information to process the library card application. Please call our InfoCentral team at 941-861-1110 or visit one of our libraries.

 

To apply in person, complete the application, linked here and bring it with proof of residency and a photo ID to any Sarasota County library. Applications are also available in each library. You may apply and use any of the ten Sarasota County Libraries.

To establish identity and show proof of residence, bring one of the following to fulfill both requirements:

  • Florida Driver's License with a current Sarasota County address
  • Florida Identification Card with a current Sarasota County address

Otherwise, applicants are required to show a photo ID and one of the following documents as proof of residence:

  • Sarasota County Vehicle Registration
  • Sarasota County current rental agreement for a minimum of six months
  • Sarasota County current property tax receipt/bill
  • Deed to property in Sarasota County
  • Declaration of Domicile in Sarasota County
  • A current pay-stub showing current Sarasota County address
  • Sarasota County Government Employee Identification Badge
  • Sarasota County School, College or University Identification Card
  • Sarasota County School, College or University Report Card
  • Current utility bill for water, gas electricity, cable or satellite TV with current Sarasota County address
  • Consular identification card with current Sarasota County address

Resident Youth

A parent or guardian must bring proof of residency and a photo ID and must approve the Youth Application or Digital Library card for children under 18. Youth applications are also available in each library. For an application in Spanish, please click here.

Reciprocal Borrowers

Complete the application, linked here and bring it with your current valid home library card, a photo ID and proof of residency in your home county. Applications are also available in each library. (See "I'm not a resident. Can I get a library card?" for more information.)

Non-Residents

Complete the application, linked here and bring it with a photo ID to any Sarasota County library. Applications are also available in each library.

Select a term for the card:

  • $15 for a three-month card
  • $25 for a six-month card
  • $40 for a yearly card
  • $80 for a two-year card

Fees are paid for online through the library's portal, in My Account, once your Non-Resident Card is created.  Staff will walk you through the payment process (staff do not take the payment directly).  Fees are non-refundable. 

Please note: The fees for Non-Resident cards are based on the annual amount paid in taxes by a resident.

Links & Files

FAQ Actions

Submit Your Question