Support Us Button Widget

September is Library Card Sign-Up Month

We break down the perks and sign up process for a public library card.

Central Library

The bright orange facade of Central Library in San Antonio, TX.

Photo by Andres Nunez via Unsplash

When’s the last time you visited a local library? We have to admit, it’s been awhile for us. Mayor Ron Nirenburg recently signed a declaration establishing September as Library Card Sign-Up Month to encourage San Antonians to visit their local library and sign up for a free library card.

Need a library card? Don’t worry, we got you. Let’s dig into the variety of uses + perks your library card has and how to register.

San Antonio Public Libraries

The San Antonio Public Library (SAPL) system has 29 branches (28 branches and a library outlet at the Briscoe Western Art Museum) throughout the city. For over 110 years, SAPL has offered a host of free services + events for the Alamo City community. In order to access these amenities, you need to get yourself a library card.

Library card perks

SAPL offers more than just book rentals, they also offer these perks to card holders:

  • eBooks
  • eAudiobooks
  • Magazines
  • CDs, DVDs, and Blu-Rays
  • Vinyl records

What’s the coolest perk of a library card, in our opinion? SAPL allows members access to over 100 publications including National Geographic, The New York Times, and The Wall Street Journal.

How do I sign up?

Registering for a SAPL library card is easy and best of all — free. Those who live in San Antonio + Bexar County can visit any library location with a photo ID and proof of current address (like a utility bill). Don’t forget the kiddos under 18, they are eligible for their own cards as long as they’re accompanied by a parent or guardian.

For instant access to digital resources like eBooks and eAudiobooks, you can pre-register for a 90-day eCard. During that time, you can bring in the required documentation to any of the SAPL branches and get a physical card to tap into library’s fullest potential.

More from SATXtoday
See what improvements are coming to this stretch of road.
Learn about the meaning behind this architectural element that can be found around the park.
Whether you’re on the hunt for whiskey, tequila, gin, rum, or something entirely different, we’ve found a Texas-owned spirit to sip.
The Lone Star State is about to get a few more stars — Michelin, that is.
Check out these local wine bars + wineries around the 210
Let’s step back in time and see how this iconic Alamo City landmark came to be
Name a better combo than soda and a quesadilla, we’ll wait.
We want to show our support for San Antonio educators by highlighting their teacher supplies wishlists.
Meet FIAMME Pizzeria and what to expect from its elevated Neapolitan pizza
A turn of phrase here, a recognizable San Antonio nod there — these craft beers found around the Alamo City take local pride seriously.