The Library1 card program is designed to lower barriers to getting a library card for those who are under 18. Provided for in our Borrowing and Lending Policy, the Library1 card allows a minor who lives or attends school in our service area to have basic library access with no financial risk to the minor or to any parent or guardian.
Getting Started
- A guest under 18 years of age wanting to check out materials or use the computers may request a Library1 card at any BDL branch service desk.
- Library staff must still verify residency/eligibility. An official student ID would work, along with any of the other ID options listed in our Borrowing and Lending Policy. Students enrolled in Branch County schools could also login to their school information account, or show their live account (not a picture) on their personal device to library staff, as a way to verify eligibility.
Library1 Cardholders May
- Use library computers.
- Check out 1 print item at a time from the juvenile or young adult sections.
- Use Mango Languages, Tutor.com, or other online services that don't circulate materials.
Library1 Cardholders May Not
- Check out more than 1 item at a time.
- Check out anything other than print materials.
- Check out print materials from the adult sections.
- Check out materials from MeLCat.
- Use Libby, Hoopla, or any other online services that circulate materials.
Notifying a Parent/Guardian
Library staff will send a letter home to the parent or guardian of the minor informing them of the new Library1 card and explaining the terms and benefits. Parents/Guardians will have the opportunity to opt their child out of the card if they wish.
What Happens if Library Materials Get Lost or Damaged?
If an item checked out under a Library1 card gets lost or damaged, the account will be suspended for the remainder of the calendar year. Each year, fines are forgiven and privileges are restored. Privileges may be restored sooner by paying the charges incurred.
