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Using the Library FAQs

Filtered by type: “Library Accounts”

Library Accounts

Getting a library card

Carol Stream residents may apply for a library account and receive a card right away by visiting the Patron Services desk in the lobby. If you prefer to have a card mailed to you, applying online is also an option.

Applying in-person: An ID with current address is sufficient for residency verification. If your ID does not display your current address, we'll need one of these documents:

  • Lease or property tax bill
  • Current (30 days) imprinted statement or bill such as credit card, bank statement, utility bill or pay stub (you may present an online document with your smartphone).
  • Vehicle registration

 

Apply for a Library Account Online 

  • Library staff will review and process your application. Upon approval, your new Library card will be mailed to you with instructions on how to activate it.  Click here to apply.

 

Your Carol Stream Library account will also be registered at the following nearby public libraries:

  • Batavia
  • Bensenville
  • Bloomingdale
  • Geneva
  • Glen Ellyn
  • Glenside (Glendale Heights)
  • Itasca
  • Messenger (North Aurora)
  • Oak Brook
  • Roselle
  • St. Charles
  • Villa Park
  • Warrenville
  • West Chicago
  • Wood Dale
  • Many more (click here for a full list)

 

Library accounts do not expire while you remain at your current place of residence.
Accounts for residents under the age of 18 will expire on December 31 of the year of their 18th birthday. 

Library cards for residents under age 18

Residents under 18 years old may have their own library account. The parents/legal guardian must sign the minor’s application and provide the required residency verification in person. These accounts stay active while the accountholder remains at their current place of residence or until their 18th birthday.

Library cards for non-residents

Non-residents (most often in unincorporated areas with Carol Stream addresses) who are not served by another public library may acquire a library card by paying an annual fee based on property valuation, comparable to the costs paid by residents of the Village of Carol Stream.

  • Non-Resident Homeowner – The annual fee is determined by multiplying the most recent equalized assessed valuation with the Library’s current tax rate (EAV or Net Taxable Value x .002470).
  • Non-Resident Renter – The annual fee is equal to 15% of the average monthly rent verified by current lease or rent receipt.
Lost library cards

Lost or stolen library cards should be reported to the Library immediately to prevent unauthorized use. The cardholder is responsible for all items checked out on their lost or stolen card along with any fines, fees, or damages incurred prior to the date the library is notified. 

You may obtain a replacement card at the Patron Services desk in our lobby by presenting a government-issued photo ID.

Account notifications

Library notifications you may receive via email:

  • Hold pickup notices
  • Overdue and Billing notices
  • Courtesy notices (Items are due soon)

Also available: Phone and text notifications

  • If you'd like to receive notifications via automated phone call, let us know.
  • If you'd like to receive notifications via text message, visit My Account > Account Settings > Text Message Notifications