Apply for a NEW Library Card

Complete both steps in order to received a library.  Following form submission:

  • You will receive an email verifying your account with a temporary online card number. Please check your spam folder if you do not see this email in your inbox. Temporary cards are valid for 30 days and may only be used to access online resources from the Library in the Forest home page.
  • In 1-2 business days, a librarian will activate your full-use account and provide information on how to obtain your physical library card. A full-use library card is valid for two (2) years. Only a full-use library card may be used to reserve physical or digital materials online through the JCLC online database.

Click here to reserve materials online through the JCLC online database. Your full-use library card can also be used for:

  • Explore Databases to magazines, journal articles from online resources.
  • Enjoy downloads to Audiobooks, eBooks, magazines and more!
  • Place Hold Requests using our online catalog. (When you pickup your items, you will need to upgrade your eCard into a library card.)

Step 1: Create a temporary eCard.

By completing step 1, you will receive a temporary eCard that you can use before receiving your library card.

Step 2: Submit identification and proof of residency

Complete the following form, and upload the following required documents and click “submit.” (You may upload multiple documents at the same time. Simply drag and drop the files to the upload space below.)

Name

By registering for a library card, you agree to comply with library terms and conditions including the
following:

  • Your library card is good at any public library in Jefferson County, Alabama.
  • Your library card is for your own personal use. You are responsible for all materials borrowed on the card. Treat your library card as you would a credit card. Report a lost or stolen card immediately to prevent unauthorized use.
  • The library charges fines for materials kept past the due date, and reserves the right to refuse service until overdue materials are returned or account balances are paid.
  • Please report changes of name, address, phone number and/or email address as soon as possible.
  • You are responsible for all materials borrowed on the library card. If applicant is under 18, parent or guardian is the responsible party. As a courtesy, the library will try to notify you of overdue materials but you are still responsible for any fines.
  • Report lost or stolen cards immediately to prevent unauthorized use. Please report changes of name, address, telephone number, and email address as soon as possible.
  • Fines may be charged for overdue, lost or damaged materials, and may vary based on item type and owning location.
  • Cards that are expired or have more than $5 in fines may limit access to library resources.
  • Your library card is good at any public library in Jefferson County, Alabama.

Library Card Eligibility

Jefferson County Residents: 

All Jefferson County (Alabama) residents qualify for a FREE library card.

Patrons over 18

  • Patrons over the age of 18 must provide either a driver’s license with current address or a government issued photo ID. Proof of residency must also be provided. Accepted proof of residency documents include a piece of mail, billing statement, lease agreement or mortgage document bearing your name and current address.
  • If your photo ID does not contain your current address, include a photograph/scan of a piece of mail, billing statement, lease agreement or mortgage document bearing your name and current address.

Non-Jefferson County Residents: 

Residents of counties outside Jefferson County and within the state of Alabama may purchase a library card for an annual fee of $50. These cards are issued in the applicant’s name, but may be used by that person’s entire family.

Patrons under 18

  • Children under the age of 18 can only register for a library card at the library, not online.
  • Children under the age of 18 must have a parent or legal guardian sign a responsibility statement.
  • Parent/Guardians must provide proof of residency as described above.
  • The parent/guardian and the child must be present when registering for a library card.
  • The parent/guardian’s government-issued photo ID will be used when issuing a library card to a patron under 18.