Library Cards

FCPL now provides increased access with our Digital Library Cards. Digital Cards can access many of our online resources and are available to all Frederick County residents and workers.

To get a Digital Card, please complete the Online User Registration form. Digital Cards may be upgraded to a traditional library card by visiting your local branch in person or through Curbside Pickup and bringing a photo ID.

Traditional library cards are available all branches with a photo ID and proof of current address. All FCPL library cards are fine free, meaning you will not be charged any late fees if your items are not returned on time. If an item is lost or damaged, cardholders will still be responsible for the replacement cost.

WHAT YOUR CARD CAN DO

Digital Card

Library Card

  • Access all of our digital resources at fcpl.org/download and fcpl.org/learn
  • Place unlimited item holds
  • Check out unlimited items
  • Renew items up to five times

Student Success Card

  • Access ebooks from fcpl.org/download
  • Check out ten print items (books or magazines)
  • Use learning resources such as encyclopedias, journal articles, and test prep at fcpl.org/learn
  • Available to all Frederick County Public School students
  • When adding an email address to your account please use one that doesn't end with @my.fcps.org
  • Find out more

Library Card Policy

Library cards are free to anyone who lives or works in Maryland and to anyone with a valid card from any of the following libraries: District of Columbia; Cities of Alexandria and Falls Church; and Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun, and Prince William Counties in Virginia. Proof of name and address required. 

Out of State residents may obtain a card for a one-time fee of $40.00. 

To obtain a library card, registrants must produce photo identification and proof of their current address. Examples of acceptable proof of address include, but are not limited to, personal checks with name and address, bills that reflect name and address, or a signed lease agreement that shows name and address. 

If no proof of address is available, a registrant may receive a card and check out 3 items. Upon their next visit or within 60 days, whichever comes first, the individual must present proof of address or the account will be removed from the system. Cards expire if not used in 2 years. 

A person under the age of 12 is eligible for a children’s library card and must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian to obtain one. The parent or legal guardian must provide proper proof of address. 

Library cardholders are responsible for lost or damaged materials, and parents/guardians are responsible for all materials borrowed on a children’s library card.

Revised policy approved by the Board of Trustees of Frederick County Public Libraries on 9/6/17. Revised 9/4/19, 9/6/23. Reaffirmed 9/4/24.