Library Cards

Get a Physical Library Card

Getting a library card is free, simple and quick. Sign up today and begin taking advantage of our resources.

image of many old downey city library cards

    • Photo Identification: We accept the following forms of identification: California Driver’s License, California ID, Military ID, Passport and Matricula Consular. For additional forms of acceptable identification, please contact library staff.

    • Proof of Home Address: We accept the following as proof of your current address: California Driver’s License, California ID or utility bill. For additional forms of acceptable proof of address, please contact library staff.

    If you are under the age of 18, a parent or guardian with an acceptable form of identification and proof of address, must be present at sign up.

  • We have applications on-hand at the library, but if you’d like to fill one out ahead of time, here are our applications in English and Spanish:

  • Start browsing our collection in person or online!

How do I get a Library Card?

Get a Digital Library Card

Sign up online for our Digital Library Card to enjoy access to our online collection of books, newspapers, magazines, streaming movies and more.

Here are just a few things you can do with your Digital Library Card.

  • Read eBooks

  • Listen to audiobooks

  • Access your favorite magazines

  • Learn languages

  • Work with live online tutors

  • Access our entire collection of databases and online resources

What you can Access with a Digital Card

Comics plus
Linked in learning
Explora primary
Points of view reference center
Get set up
Medline Plus
Ebsco host
Explora secondary
Legal information reference center
Rosetta stone
The New York Times
Brainfuse help now
Cloud Library
Coursera
Cloud library news stand

Get a Temporary Card

The library offers temporary cards for in-person visitors to the library

  • This card is meant for adult visitors who are unable to provide proof of identity and/or a California home address. This is ideal for:

    • Visitors from out–of-state or abroad with a valid photo ID

    • Visitors with a valid photo ID but no proof of current home address in the State of California

    • Visitors with an expired photo ID

    • Visitors with no photo ID

    Guest cards expire after a 3 month period, but can be renewed for additional 3 month periods or upgraded to a traditional card once a proof of California residency is provided in person. With this card, you can:

    • Borrow and place request for all print material (books, pamphlets, etc.)

    • Access online services, digital books, and databases

    • Use public computers

    • Reserve and use our rooms

Replace Your Card

To report a Lost or Damaged library card, call (562) 904-7366.

To replace your card, you’ll have to visit the Library and present a valid photo ID. There is a $1.00 fee to replace your library card.

Borrowing Policies

Renewals:

  • Most items may be renewed 1 time

  • Items are renewed automatically 3 days prior to their due date unless the item is being requested by another member

Loan Limits:

  • Maximum of 40 library items checked out on a card

Fees:

  • Lost Materials Processing Fee: $5.00

Library Cards: Library cards are free with photo identification and proof of current address. A parent's signature and proper identification are required for those under the age of 18 years of age. Downey and Warren High School students may apply use their current Downey Unified ID card as their library card.

Loan Periods:

  • 7 Days: DVDs

  • 7 Days: CD’s and Magazines

  • 21 Days: All other materials