Text Us: 941-234-0394
Get a Library Card
Sign up online for a library card and get instant access to many of our online resources!
APPLY ONLINE: Temporary library card registration form
Please note:
- Within 90 days, you will be required to visit any library location in-person/curbside to show proof of Manatee residency, employment, or school enrollment to get continued access and pick up your physical card, which will be issued when you arrive. See list below of what you may bring.
- Do not fill out the form above if you already have a library card. If you cannot remember your PIN, go to this page and click on Forgot your PIN? link.
- If you are having trouble, email [email protected] or text us at 941-234-0394
Library card information
Resident library cards are FREE to people who reside 6 months or more, own property, go to school, and/or work in Manatee County.
Bring one of the following showing your Manatee County address to any location:
- Florida Photo ID
- Florida Driver’s license
- Local School ID (16 and up)
OR use another form of photo ID and at least one item from the list below:
- Utility bill
- Voter registration
- Tax document
- Property Appraiser document
- Vehicle registration
- Lease (must be at least 6 months + 1 day)
- Military ID
- Mortgage
- Pay stub with a local address
- Consulate ID with a Manatee address
- Supervisor of Elections address
- Federal mail, such as IRS or Social Security
- Letter from shelter on their stationery
Applications for children 15 and younger require the signature of a parent/legal guardian. Proper ID is required for everyone age 16 and up. When necessary, the library will mail a card for address verification.
Non-Residents
Non-residents may get a library card upon payment of a $25.00 annual fee. Anyone making a one-time donation of $100 or more to the Library Foundation will receive a Lifetime library card. Presentation of photo ID and fee payment must be done in-person/curbside.
Reciprocal Borrowing
A free library card can be obtained by showing a valid card from a library in the following counties: Citrus, DeSoto, Hardee, Hernando, Highlands, Hillsborough, Okeechobee, Pasco, Pinellas, and Sarasota. While reciprocal borrowers are entitled to check out books, CDs, DVDs from Manatee Library, there is no access to electronic resources or specialty items like telescopes. All materials must be returned to Manatee Library locations.
All-Access Pass
Enrolled K-12 public school students have automatic access to public library resources with their Student ID number. See the All-Access Pass page to learn more about how students may use this library card account.