How to Get a Library Card
You can save some time on your first visit by filling out one of our application forms in advance, printing it out, and bringing it with you.
For Brookline Residents
Just present a picture ID (MA driver's license preferred) plus something which shows your current address, such as a license, a letter that was mailed to you, a bill, etc., at one of our Circulation Desks. Post office box numbers are not eligible as proof of address, although we can set your mailing address in your record to a P.O. Box.
For Residents of Other Minuteman Library Network (MLN) Towns
If you already have a library card from a Minuteman Library, you can use it here without further ado. Only a few of our services, such as the loaning of museum passes, are restricted to Brookline residents.
If you live in another MLN town and have not yet obtained an MLN library card, please go to your local library and register. You will be able to use your new card here immediately.
For all other Massachusetts Residents
All Massachusetts residents* are welcome to register for a Brookline card. If you do not live in Brookline, please present your home town library card, a picture ID, and a license, apartment lease, bill, postmarked envelope, or other item that bears your current address, at one of our Circulation Desks.
If you'd like, we can probably use your home town library card barcode as your Brookline and Minuteman ID when you register. That way, you won't have to carry around an extra piece of plastic.
* Except those from communities not coverd by reciprocal borrowing agreements.
Out-of-State Residents who work, study, or own property in Massachusetts
Out of state residents who work in Massachusetts, are students in Massachusetts, own property in Massachusetts, or are temporarily living in Massachusetts for more than two months may be issued a Minuteman card in Brookline.
All Out-of-State residents must provide positive identification and proof of their home address. Property owners must also provide ID such as a tax bill, utility bill, etc. for their Massachusetts property. Students must also verify their status with school identification and provide their school address. Out of state residents working in Massachusetts must provide their work address.
Other Out-of-State Residents
Out-of-State residents who do not meet any of the above criteria are always welcome to use materials inside the library without a library card. They can also obtain a borrower's card with the following:
- Annual payment of $25.00. Card will be set to expire one year from date of registration and will need to be updated annually. This card can be used only in Brookline. Other MLN libraries are not bound to accept it. A note to that effect will be added to your borrower record.
- Positive Identification.
- Proof of Current Address (not a Post Office Box).