Your Library Card FAQs

  • General Questions

    I want a library card! How do I get one? Read the below information carefully. When you're ready, select this button: I agree. You will be prompted to fill out an application which acts as a contract. Once you submit the application, bring your photo ID to the Welcome Desk.

    When you apply at the library, bring your photo ID and proof of current address (if not on your photo ID) to the Welcome Desk.

    When you apply online, you will receive a library card number within 1 week and a physical library card in the mail within 4 weeks that you can use to download or stream ebooks, access online training courses, and more.

    To check out physical items, stop by the Westerville Public Library with your photo ID and proof of current address (if not on your photo ID).  

    Note: You must be age 18 or older to receive your new library card number by email and your new library card by mail. Minors ages 0-17, you must bring a parent or guardian to the library to receive your library card.

    To receive your library card, you need to:

    • Be an Ohio resident
    • Show your government-issued photo ID
    • Show proof of your current address (if not listed on ID)
    • Bring your parent or guardian with you (for minors under 18 only)

    It is your responsibility to:

    • Be financially responsible for items borrowed with this card.
    • Keep your account up to date with correct contact information.
    • Monitor the items your child selects and checks out on this card.
    • Report a lost or stolen card immediately. (You are solely responsible for items borrowed on your card until you report it lost or stolen.)

    Note: This application is a contract, and is for new cards only. If you need to renew or replace your library card, please visit the Welcome Desk.

    By default, your PIN is the last four digits of your phone number. You can change this at any time for additional security.

    Your library card number is located below the barcode on the back of your physical library card.

    If you've temporarily misplaced or lost your library card, request your library card number via this form.

    If you have lost or misplaced your library card, contact the library immediately to report it as lost or stolen:

    A replacement card will be mailed to your address on file.

    To obtain information about your account or update your contact information, you must show your government-issued photo ID (or school ID with the current school year's date clearly indicated) at the welcome desk or contact your school delivery representative.

    You are responsible for all items checked out on your library card, so make your report as soon as possible. There is no charge for replacing your card.

    Note: Your library card number will change when it is replaced. This may affect your access to existing holds or items through the library's ebook services. This may also affect your access to your account balance for printing.

    Your library card account is set to renew every three years. This provides the library an opportunity to seek your updated contact information.

    Renew Your Card

    Replacement cards: If you would like to replace your library card, please renew your card in person at the Welcome Desk. There is not a fee to replace your card.

    You may use your student card to:

    • Borrow up to 5 books, movies, and more *
    • Place holds on up to 5 items
    • Request free delivery of library items to your school
    • Download or stream ebooks, audiobooks, digital magazines, music albums and more
    • Use a library computer and connect to the internet
    • Get access to free online tutoring
    • Do research and use subscription databases
    • Register for events

    * Some limitations may apply to student cards when borrowing from other libraries.

    For more information about the student library card project, visit this page.

    Yes, with some limitations. Check with staff at the neighboring library for details.

    Yes! You can borrow items here using a library card from any of these 17 neighboring libraries.

    Note: You will need a Westerville Public Library card to access some research databases, borrow a laptop, place orders for 3D and custom printing, or borrow some unique items in the Westerville Public Library collection.

    If you need to update your contact information on file with the library, contact us.

    Alternatively, you can update some information (like email address, username, PIN, phone number, or notification preference) via your online account.

    1. Log into your account.*
    2. Go to My Settings.
    3. Choose the desired option(s) from this menu: Account Information.

    * Trouble logging in? View these instructions.