Get a Library Card

Your Talbot County Free Library card allows you to check out library materials, access online resources, and use the public access computers available in our branches.

What kind(s) of card am I eligible for? Is there a cost?

All Maryland residents are eligible for a standard Talbot County Free Library card, free of charge. Out of state residents who wish to have a library card with us will be charged a $30 fee. Besides the standard personal card, those working in Talbot County as a teacher, licensed child care provider, or homeschooling parent are also eligible for a Teacher's Library Card with unique benefits and limitations.

How do I apply for a card?

Bring photo identification and proof of address to either Talbot County Free Library branch. A current driver's license or Maryland MVA ID would satisfy both requirements, or call the library at 410-822-1626 to inquire about other acceptable forms of identification. Application forms are available to be filled out at the Circulation Desk in either branch. Children under 18 years of age will need the signature of a parent or guardian willing to accept responsibility for library materials to be borrowed in order to apply for a standard library card.

What if I lose my card or forget to bring it with me?

Lost cards can be replaced for a fee of $1. If your card is lost, particularly if there is a chance that your card has found its way into someone else's hands, you should notify us and replace it as soon as possible, so we can deactivate the lost card. You are responsible for all materials checked out on your card. If you have forgotten to bring your card with you, you will need to show photo ID before we can look up account information or check out materials.

How do I access account information?

You can log in to the library's online catalog to view account information such as items out and due dates, to update contact information, or to place holds on items. To log in, you will need to enter your 14 digit library card number, as well as your password. If you do not know your password, there's an option at the log in page to have your password sent to the email address we have on file for you. Or, you can ask a library employee to set a new password for you.

Online Card Registration

You may register for a temporary library card number to access eBooks, movies, eMagazines, and other eResources. This number will allow you to place holds on items and use our eResources (with the exception of HeritageQuest and Ancestry.com) from your home, 24/7. It will also allow you to check out up to 2 items at a time, or you can upgrade your temporary card in person to a full card by showing photo ID and proof of address to check out up to 50 items. The temporary card number will expire in 60 days. To obtain a physical library card, you may come in and show ID which will allow you to use a computer and check out physical library materials. Children under 18 years of age will need the signature of a parent or guardian willing to accept responsibility for library materials to be borrowed in order to get a physical library card.