Q. How do I sign up for a library card?

Library cards are free for Knox County residents or property owners. For verification reasons, account registration cannot be completed online.

To register for an account, complete an application and present it with name and address verification to Lawson McGhee Library (downtown) or any branch. (Applications are linked below and are also available at the checkout counter.)

Each of the following items is considered to be acceptable proof for identity and Knox County address.

Proof of identity:

• Current driver's license
• Credit card
• Social Security card
• School ID
• Hunting/fishing license

Proof of Knox County address:

• Current driver's license
• Current telephone or utility bill: any date on the bill is within 30 days of today
• Current checkbook
• Voter registration card
• A piece of mail received at your Knox County address, postmarked within the last 30 days

You may use your card at any Knox County Public Library location (including online collections) until it expires. Library cards expire every three years.

If the applicant is age 17 or younger, the signature of a parent or legal guardian is required, acknowledging responsibility for the use of the minor's account including fees and materials. This library card provides the minor access to all library computers, including games and the Internet.

An out-of-county card is available to Tennessee residents living outside Knox County for an annual cost of $40; these accounts may be reactivated each year. Immediate household members may use this account if authorized. We cannot accept online payments such as PayPal.

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