How do I get a library card?

A Tippecanoe County Public Library card is the only card you need to unlock a world of imagination, information, and educational resources! Getting a Tippecanoe County Public Library Card is easy and takes only a few minutes.

Questions you may have:

Am I eligible for a free Tippecanoe County Public Library card?

Tippecanoe County residents and property owners are eligible for a free library card. There are no age restrictions for receiving a card. If a minor receives a library card without a parent or guardian present, the library will notify the parent or guardian by mail. Parents and guardians are responsible for items borrowed and the use of the card by the minor.

Residents outside of Tippecanoe County may be eligible for a free TCPL card if their home library is designated as a reciprocal library. Residents of the city of West Lafayette Public Library taxing district are eligible for a reciprocal borrower’s card. Call Circulation Service at (765)429-0123 to see if your home library is a reciprocal borrowing library.

I’m not eligible for a free card. What are my options?

If you live in an Indiana taxing district that does not support a local public library, you may purchase a Non-Resident library card. The current fee is $50.00 annually.

Alternatively if you live in an Indiana taxing district that does support a local public library, but that library is not a member of the Reciprocal Borrower’s Agreement, you will need to purchase a Public Library Access Card (PLAC) to get a Tippecanoe County Public Library card. The current fee is $65.00 annually.

Call Circulation Services at (765)429-0123 for more information.

Can I apply for a library card online?

Yes! If you don’t have a library card with us, sign up for an account through our online catalog, TIPCAT, here. Once you’ve completed the online form, visit any of our locations to complete the application process. Review the proof of identity and proof residency requirements in the What will I need to bring section below.

What will I need to bring?

You must bring a current photo ID and proof of your residency when applying for a card. Cards will only be issued to individuals who apply in person. This includes minors.

Applications are available at all of our locations, or begin the application process online here.

What works as ID and/or proof of Residency?

The library will accept the following to prove your identity and residency. A driver’s license with your current address can count for both an ID and address. People under the age of 18 may use their parent or guardian’s proof of address as verification. If you do not live in Tippecanoe County and need to register as a reciprocal borrower, you must have your home library card with you. If you have any further questions or concerns, please call Circulation Services at (765)429-0123 for more information.

Photo ID

– Driver’s License
– State ID
– School ID
– Passport
– Parent/Guardian verification (minors only)

Proof of Residency

– Driver’s License
– State ID
– Car Registration
– Check Book
– Lease
– Pay Stub
– Utility Bill

What if my card is lost or stolen?

If your card is lost or stolen, you should report this to any Library Circulation desk immediately. A Circulation staff member will block your account in order to prevent misuse of your card.

If you would like to replace your card, please come in person to any Library Circulation desk. There is a $1.00 fee for a new card. You will need to show a photo ID to receive a new card. Minors will be asked questions to verify their identity. Please note that the cardholder must be present. Even if the cardholder is a minor their presence is required to receive the card.

What if I forget my card? Can I still check out?

If you forget your card, you may check out with a photo ID. These checkouts will be limited to 3 items.

What if my card has expired?

The library expires accounts to confirm contact information and notification preferences.  To extend your account privileges, call us at 429-0123, or visit any of our locations. As soon as your information is updated, your borrowing privileges are restored.

 

Remember you will need to bring in a current photo ID and proof of address in order to receive a card. You can apply in person at any Tippecanoe County Public Library location:

Downtown
Wea Prairie
Klondike
Wyandotte
Mobile Library