Prince William Public Libraries

How do I get a library card?
To apply for a library card, start your application online by clicking "Don't have a PWPL library card?" or show identification with your current address at a local library branch.

To download an application (Library User Agreement - Spanish version included):

• You may download an application and bring it with you the next time you visit the library.
• Teachers may download copies of the application for their class or group visit. In order to be processed, these forms must be filled out legibly and completely, and the information must be verified by the teacher. The name of the school or organization and the teacher’s name must be clearly labeled on each application. Applications for children under the age of 18 must have a parent/legal guardian signature in addition to the parent/legal guardian name clearly printed in the appropriate spot. Processing time for library card applications is a minimum of two weeks.

How do I get a Digital Library Card?

For those Prince William County and City of Manassas residents who do not yet have a library card, another option is to sign up for a digital library card. A digital library card allows access to the Digital Library without visiting a library branch. With a digital library card, you will have access to our Digital Library for 30 days. Due to licensing restrictions, Freading, hoopla Digital, Kanopy, Libby, and OverDrive are only available with a physical library card.

After you register for a digital library card, you will receive an email with all the details about your card number.

In addition to accessing our digital services, you may visit any PWPL branch to upgrade to a physical library card within 30 days before the digital library card expires (a photo ID with proof of your current address is required).

If you are having issues accessing our Digital Library with your digital library card, please call a staff member to assist you.

Is there a charge for a library card?
No. A library card is free. See Non-Resident Fee Policy.

Do I have to renew my library card?
Yes, adults may renew their library cards over the phone or in person. If your address has changed, you will be asked to provide proof of residency during your next library visit. Renewals for minor library cards require a legal guardian's signature and must be done in person.

Prince William Public Libraries is introducing automatic renewal beginning July 1, 2024. What is automatic renewal? 
Automatic renewal removes the need to manage eligible renewals of physical materials in your library account. Items eligible for renewal will be listed in notices three days before their due date and will automatically renew for the full three weeks from the due date. Items will auto-renew up to four times as long as they are still eligible. READ MORE.

Can my children get library cards?
Children and young adults under the age of 18 can be issued library cards, but a parent/legal guardian's signature is required. The recommended age to apply for a card is five years old.

What happens if I lose my library card?
Call the library to report a lost/stolen card right away so no one else can use it. Identification is required to obtain a replacement library card.

I have a card from another library. May I use it here?
If your library card was issued by the Prince William Public Libraries, it can be used at any of our 12 branches.

WE HAVE RECIPROCAL BORROWING AGREEMENTS WITH THE FOLLOWING PUBLIC LIBRARIES:

Virginia: Fairfax County, Arlington County, Loudoun County, City of Falls Church, City of Alexandria, Central Rappahannock Regional Library, Fauquier County Public Library, Manassas Park.

Maryland: Montgomery County, Prince George's County, Frederick County, and Charles County.

Washington, DC: DC Public Library.

A borrower must present identification with their current home address verifying that they reside in one of the above jurisdictions to obtain a Prince William library card to borrow books, periodicals, DVDs, e-books, audiobooks, and more. If a patron is under 18, a parent or legal guardian must sign the library user agreement form.

Can other members of my family use my card?
If you wish for another family member to use your library card, give the card to that family member so they may check out materials. You are responsible for all items checked out on your card.

What if I do not live or work in Prince William County (or in our Reciprocal libraries areas) or the City of Manassas?
You may purchase a library card for one year for the non-resident fee of $113. You must apply for the card in person and show identification with your current home address. See Non-Resident Fee Policy.