Library Cards and Accounts

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Library Cards and Accounts

Who can get a library card?

All California residents can get a library card at any of our libraries. A Salinas Public Library Card, in good standing, is required to checkout any and all material.

How to get a library card?

Complete the library card application and bring a photo ID (e.g. driver’s license or school ID) to any library location.  If your current home address does not match the address listed on your ID, please bring along a proof of residence with current address (e.g. utility bill, rental agreement, bank statement) with the completed library card application. A business address or Post Office box that is listed on a current California ID or driver's license may be accepted as verification of California residency.

Do I need to pay for a library card?

Your first library card is free but a replacement costs $2.00/card.

What can I do with a library card?

You can use your library card to:

  • Borrow library materials at all library locations
  • Access services from the library’s Digital Branch
  • Use public computers at all library locations
  • Borrow video games and controllers for in-library use at all library locations
  • Borrow video games for 7 days (new video games) or 21 days (regular video games). The video game collection is located at El Gabilan Library and Cesar Chavez Library but can also be reserved from the John Steinbeck Library.  
  • Access Digital Arts Lab at John Steinbeck Library and El Gabilan Library
  • Get discounted tickets through Discover & Go and Shelf to Shore programs

How do I view my account information?

Log in to My Account (located in the top menu on our website).

  • Username: 14-digit Library card number
  • Password: Usually the last 4 digits of your phone number on file

What is my PIN? Can I change it?

Your PIN is the last 4 digits of your phone number on file. Usually, this is the phone number that you provided when you first register for a library card.
You may change your PIN by logging in to your account on the website or visiting the service desk at any of our libraries.