Connect with the Library:

Discover more: Get a Library Card

Join almost 700,000 visitors to the Portland Public Library’s four locations and the PPL Bookmobile each year. To obtain your free library card, please visit any PPL location or a partner library with a photo ID and proof of current address. A list of partner libraries around the region can be found below.

If you have further questions, contact Lending Services at the Downtown Library by email at lending@portlib.org, or by phone at (207) 871-1700 x731.

Who can get a library card?

Free Library cards are available to:

  • Residents and full-time students attending school (5 or older) in Portland or any town in the Southern Maine Library District (York County, Cumberland County, and part of Oxford County).
    • Southern Maine Library District towns [Click to Expand]
  • Individuals listed as property taxpayers in Portland
  • Individuals working in Portland (expires after one year, but may be renewed)

others may purchase a card ($20 per year). Patrons of other libraries may borrow PPL materials for free via interlibrary loan.

Where can I get a library card?

  • Drop by any physical PPL location
  • Or visit one of our partner libraries around the region:
    • View Our Partner Libraries [Click to Expand]

What do I need to get a library card?

Adults may apply for a Library card with a photo ID with your name and current address (or a photo ID and a document showing your name and current address). For more information, email lending@portlib.org or call (207) 871-1700 x731.

Teens (13-18) may get their own library cards using a variety of documents such as school ID, school schedule, or club ID to prove identification.

Children (5-12) must be accompanied by a parent to get a card. The parent must show either their own PPL library card or the same identification as an adult. Parents are responsible for all materials borrowed on a child’s card.

How do I update the contact information in my record?

Update your card with a new address, phone number, or other information by accessing your patron account online or email lending@portlib.org or phone 871-1700 x731 and we will help you.

What if I lose my card?

Report a lost card to the Library as soon as possible. Email lending@portlib.org or phone 871-1700 x731 and we will help you. There is no replacement fee. You are responsible for all materials borrowed with your card until you report it lost or stolen.


Maine Reciprocal Borrowing

Reciprocal Borrowing programThe Maine Reciprocal Borrowing Program allows you to use your library card at almost 70 other libraries throughout Maine. For more information, see the information pages at the Maine State Library.