Everyone is eligible for a Library card. However, the kind of card you are eligible for depends on your property tax district. Each card type (resident, non-resident, reciprocal, or special use) has its own registration requirements and borrowing privileges. Check out our Loan Rules page to learn more about loan rules and renewals. 

Visit us in-person to complete an application. You will need the following to register.

  • Valid Photo ID such as a Driver’s License, State Identification Card, Passport, or School ID
  • Current Proof of Address such as a Driver’s License, Current Lease/Housing Agreement, Utility Bill, or Paystub
  • A legal guardian, if you are under 18 years old

Card Types

Lake Bluff Library Cards

Resident Cards are issued to individuals residing in incorporated Lake Bluff properties that are taxed for Library services by the Village of Lake Bluff. Incorporated Lake Bluff includes the Sanctuary and Tangly Oaks.

Non-resident cards are issued to individuals residing in unincorporated Lake Bluff and Knollwood properties that are not taxed for Library services by any taxing body. Non-resident cards may be purchased for an annual fee equivalent to what the property would pay in taxes for Library services.

Reciprocal Cards

If you have a library card in good standing issued by another Illinois public library, you can register your card at Lake Bluff Public Library.

Student Cards

Students who live in unincorporated Lake Bluff and Knollwood, who attend Lake Bluff Elementary School, Lake Bluff Middle School, Lake Forest High School, or Forest Bluff School, may be eligible for a free Library card through an agreement made between those schools and the Library.

Educator Cards

These cards are available to teachers and teacher’s assistants who are residents of Lake Bluff, teach in Lake Bluff classrooms, or teach in a public school district that serves Lake Bluff.

Business/Institutional Cards

Businesses and institutions in the Lake Bluff community may register for a business/institutional card for use by designated employees of that business/institution.

Lost Your Library Card?

Replacement Library cards may be purchased at the front desk for $2.00. Visit our Fees page for more information on Library fees.