COVID-19 Updates
Vaccine and Priority Group Information
You are eligible for a free MCPL card — at any age — if you
Apply at any MCPL branch, showing a photo ID and proof of address. If you wish, you may bring a completed library card application, which is also available in Spanish.
Or apply online now.
Use your card at all MCPL branches and for our online resources.
Your card also allows you to borrow from public libraries throughout the state of Maryland, in the District of Columbia, and in the Northern Virginia jurisdictions listed above.
MCPL requires that library card accounts be renewed if an account has not been used in a year.
If your account is in good standing and your contact information has not changed, you can renew your card online. If you receive MCPL's email or text (SMS) with email notifications, you will get an email with a link to renew your account a month before it expires. You can also renew your account by logging in on our website, by calling Ask-a-Librarian at 240-777-0001, or by visiting a library.
All fines must be paid before your account can be renewed.
If you have moved, you must bring proof of address to a library. Email addresses and phone numbers linked to account notifications can be updated on our notification update form. Phone numbers not associated with notifications can be updated by calling Ask-a-Librarian at 240-777-0001.
If your card expires, you will not be able to use the library's computers, check out materials, place holds, or renew items beyond the card's expiration date.
Replacing a lost or stolen card costs $2.00. Bring photo ID and proof of address to any MCPL branch.
Library accounts are confidential. By law, we can discuss your library account only with you. This applies to all cardholders, adults and children alike.
To help parents avoid fines on their children's accounts, we offer