Montgomery County Public Libraries has launched an online system for obtaining full-service digital library cards and adding them to smartphone digital wallets.
The new fully digital library card eliminates the requirement for in-person visits to library branches and offers a more convenient and efficient method for accessing the library system’s digital resources, including e-books, audiobooks, online databases, and programs.
According to a press release issued Monday, Montgomery County residents who are 18 and older, as well as adult residents of the District of Columbia and the Northern Virginia counties of Alexandria, Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun, and Prince William, are eligible to verify their identity through MCPL’s online registration form.
These accounts, validated digitally, will adhere to the same policies and procedures as those issued in person.
The process remains the same for children under 18, nonresidents, and individuals who qualify for a card because they work or attend school in Montgomery County but do not reside in one of the partnering regions; they will still need to apply for a library card in person. Details on this process are available on the MCPL website under the “In-Person Application” section. Specific card types, such as those for educators, businesses, or institutions, will continue to follow the existing application procedures.
Additionally, new and current customers now have the option to add their library card to a smartphone digital wallet, allowing cardholders to access their library card without needing a physical card. New customers who register through the updated online form will receive a link to add their card to their digital wallet in their confirmation email; existing cardholders can log in to their accounts to add their library card to their smartphone wallet.
“Widespread access to the materials and services our public libraries provide is critical,” County Executive Marc Elrich said Monday. “Implementing this new online application and digital library card is a significant step in ensuring connection to these resources for more residents.”
Check out MCPL’s website for more information.
Photo: © connel_design – stock.adobe.com / Montgomery County Graphic
Great news from @MCPL_Libraries! You can now register online for a digital library card and gain instant access to eBooks, audiobooks and more. No need to leave your home to connect to these resources. Get your digital card today.
More info: https://t.co/ufvDbEq3De pic.twitter.com/CmLFm3Qu0C
— County Exec Marc Elrich (@MontCoExec) June 24, 2024