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Using the Library FAQs

Filtered by type: “Library Accounts”

Library Accounts

Getting a library card

If you are a resident of Carol Stream and you want to open a new account or need a replacement card, you must bring in a current government-issued photo identification and a document that verifies residency.

Forms of identification include current:

  • Driver's License
  • State ID
  • Student ID
  • Military ID
  • Passport

Residency verification documents must be issued within the current year and have applicant’s name on one of the following:

  • Driver’s License with Carol Stream address
  • Current rent receipt or property tax bill
  • Vehicle registration
  • Current (30 days) imprinted statement or bill such as credit card, bank statement, utility bill, pay stub.

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

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

Resident accounts are automatically renewed after a period of three (3) years or until a minor’s 18th birthday. 

Library cards for residents under age 18

Residents under 17 years old may have an individual borrower’s card. The parents/legal guardian of residents under age 18 must sign the minor’s application and provide the required residency verification in person.

Resident accounts are automatically renewed after a period of three (3) years or until a minor’s 18th birthday.

When a juvenile account reaches $20 in charges the borrowing privileges of the responsible party are also blocked until payment is made to bring total under $20.00.

Library cards for non-residents

Non-residents who are not served by another public library may acquire a library card by paying a fee based on property valuation, comparable to the costs paid by residents of the Village of Carol Stream.

  • Non-Resident Homeowner – Family and individual non-resident homeowners’ annual fee for library privileges will be determined upon presentation of the most recent property tax bill by multiplying the Library’s current tax rate (.002938) with the applicant’s most recent equalized assessed valuation.
  • Non-Resident Renter – Family and individual nonresident annual fee for library privileges will be equal to 15% of the average monthly rent verified by current lease, rent receipt, or cancelled check for rent paid.
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. 

Account notifications

Library notifications you may receive via email:

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

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 some notifications via text message, visit My Account and select Set Up Text Messaging.