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Library Cards

  • Monterey Public Library cards are free to residents of the State of California.
  • Non-California residents may purchase a library card for $10 per month.
  • Library card applications for customers under age 14 must be signed by a parent or legal guardian.
Applying for a Card
You can apply for a Monterey Public Library card on the Web. Fill out the simple online form then pick up your card at the Library. You can use your temporary username and password to request books and other materials as soon as you have completed the form. Please note that you must have JavaScript and cookies enabled on your browser to use this feature.

Apply for a Card Now

Verification of Address
When applying for a library card, or if you are renewing or replacing your card, please bring with you verification of your address. Any of the following documents can be used to verify your address:

  • A valid DMV driver's license, learner's permit or ID.
  • A piece of mail with your name and address, postmarked within the past 3 months.
  • A utility bill showing service in your name at your address within the past 3 months.
  • A rent receipt with your address dated within the past 3 months.
  • A rental or lease agreement dated within the past 3 months or within period of lease.
  • Imprinted bank checks.
Renewing Your Card
In order to help keep the information on library accounts up-to-date, library cards need to be renewed periodically. You can find out your renewal date by asking at the Library Help Desk or Bookmobile.

Renewing your card is easy: you need only re-verify your address with any one of the forms of verification listed on this page (Non-California residents will need to pay the $10.00 monthly fee). There are no forms to fill out, however you will need to renew your card in person at the Library Help Desk or on the Bookmobile.

Replacing a Card
Lost library cards and cards which have become worn or unreadable through use may be replaced at no charge.

You need only show identification and re-verify your address with any one of the forms of verification listed on this page. There are no forms to fill out, however you will need to request a replacement card in person at the Library Help Desk or on the Bookmobile.

FAQs about Passwords

Where do I get a password?
You create your password when you apply for your card. Your password may consist of 3 to 32 characters, and may be composed of any combination of letters and numbers. Passwords are case-sensitive. However, it is recommended that you avoid using a "trivial" password. A password is considered "trivial" if it contains:
  • A character that is repeated 3 or more times (aaa, aaaa...).
  • A set of 2, 3, or 4 characters is that is repeated 2 or more times (abab, abcabc, abcdabcd...).
"Trivial" passwords can significantly reduce the security of your account, by making it easier for unauthorized individuals to gain access.

Be sure to remember your password, as library staff cannot look it up for you.
How can I change my password?
You can change your password at any time. You will need to know your current password in order to do so. If you have forgotten your password, see the next section.
  1. From the "Log in to my account" option in the Library Catalog, enter your library card number and current password.
  2. Click on the "Log in" button.
  3. Click on the "Change your password" tab on the left side of the screen.
  4. Enter your old password into the first box.
  5. Enter your new password into the next two boxes.
  6. Click on the "Submit changes" button.
What if I can't remember my password?
Library staff cannot look up your password. If you should forget what your password is and your email address is on file, you can request a reset link be sent to you.

If your email address is not on file, you will need to visit the Library Help Desk to request that your old password be deleted. You will need to present a picture ID. Once your old password has been deleted, you may then set up a new one with Library staff.
What is the password for?
In order to protect your privacy, the Library requires a password to be used when accessing your account. It is a unique designation that you yourself create to prevent unauthorized persons from viewing your confidential information.

Your password may consist of 3 to 32 characters, and may be composed of any combination of letters and numbers. Passwords are case-sensitive. However, it is recommended that you avoid using a "trivial" password. A password is considered "trivial" if it contains:
  • A character that is repeated 3 or more times (aaa, aaaa...).
  • A set of 2, 3, or 4 characters is that is repeated 2 or more times (abab, abcabc, abcdabcd...).
"Trivial" passwords can significantly reduce the security of your account, by making it easier for unauthorized individuals to gain access.
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