Get a library card

Do you live in Des Plaines?

If you're a resident of incorporated Des Plaines, you can get a free library card. (Click here to see if you live within our boundaries.) Visit the Library or apply online. To get your library card, we need to see:

  • A photo ID
  • Proof of your residency (like your driver's license, state ID or a utility bill)

Kids Library Cards

Kids in 8th grade or younger must bring a parent or guardian who can show a photo ID and proof of their residency. Visit the Library or apply online.

Local School Library Cards

Local schools can use our resources too. The school principal can apply for a school card here and return it to the Library.

Local Business Library Cards

If you own a business in incorporated Des Plaines, we can give you a business library card. Apply for a business card here and return it to the Library.

Lost library cards

Did you lose your library card? Come to the first floor with an ID and we will issue you a new one.

Don't live in Des Plaines?

Already have a card from another library?

If you live in an area that has a library, you can use your home library card to check out anything we have in our collection. Bring your card and your photo ID with you and we will register you in our system.

Unincorporated des plaines

If you live in unincorporated Des Plaines, you may be eligible for a card from the Niles-Maine District Library. This district library serves Niles, most of unincorporated Des Plaines, and unincorporated Glenview.

If you live in a part of unincorporated Des Plaines and are NOT eligible for a Niles-Maine District Library card, you may be eligible to purchase a library card from Elk Grove Village Public Library.  Contact them at (847) 439-0447 for card information and costs.

Rosemont

Rosemont residents may purchase their cards at the Des Plaines Public Library. Rosemont residents pay 25% or $66.00 for a non-resident card for the entire family for one year. (The Village of Rosemont pays the rest of the fee directly to the Des Plaines Public Library. The full cost of a non-resident card is $264 from July 2025-June 2026.)