Library Card Types & Borrowing Rules

San Diego County Library offers different library card types based on where you live, your age, and how you like to access materials.

	eCard	Standard Card
Where to apply	Online If you’re under 18, you will need to have a parent or legal guardian fill out the application with you.	Apply in person at any San Diego County Library branch. Bring a picture ID and proof of your current address with you to pick up your card. If you’re under 18, you will need to be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
San Diego County residency required	Yes	No
Cost	Free	California residents and military: Free Non-California residents: $5 one-time fee
Check out physical books and movies	No To check out physical items, you’ll need to convert your eCard to a Standard Card at any San Diego County Library branch. Your new Standard Card number will replace the eCard number.	Yes
Libby eBooks, eAudiobooks and eMagazines	Yes	Yes (San Diego County residents only)
eLibrary resources	Yes	Yes (San Diego County residents only)
Link+ and Circuit	No	Yes (San Diego County residents only)
Inter-library Loan	No	Yes (San Diego County residents only)
Discover & Go	No	Yes (San Diego County residents only)
Expires every:	4 years	4 years
Receive physical library card	No	Yes
Card number format	SDCL######	Starts with 01535

Search