04-20-2025, 08:36 PM
Plus buying digital books is more expensive than physical books in some cases ...
CPL is sunsetting eCards and introducing two card options:
Full Access Library Card – This is our standard card offering complete access to both physical and digital materials. It is available to patrons who provide complete documentation (valid ID with your name, photo and Chicago address).
Temporary Access Card – This is our 90-day card for those with limited documentation, offering access to select resources while you gather materials to upgrade to full access. Temporary cards cannot be renewed.
Why is this changing?
We’re committed to making the Library’s resources available to the people who live in and support Chicago. eCards are now used by residents and non-residents—limiting our ability to prioritize local communities. These new card options help remove barriers, ensure fairness and support CPL’s mission to serve all Chicagoans.
What does this mean for you?
If you currently have an eCard, you’ll need to upgrade it. Visit any CPL location with identification (valid ID with your name, photo and Chicago address) to receive a Full Access Library Card or a Temporary Access Card. If you do not have identification, you can receive a Temporary Access Card (valid for 90 days). You can access an application online at: chipublib.org/librarycard.
For more detailed information on policy changes, read our news article here: chipublib.org/cardupdates. Thank you for being a part of the CPL community and helping us make resources more equitable for everyone.
NPR story Here
CPL is sunsetting eCards and introducing two card options:
Full Access Library Card – This is our standard card offering complete access to both physical and digital materials. It is available to patrons who provide complete documentation (valid ID with your name, photo and Chicago address).
Temporary Access Card – This is our 90-day card for those with limited documentation, offering access to select resources while you gather materials to upgrade to full access. Temporary cards cannot be renewed.
Why is this changing?
We’re committed to making the Library’s resources available to the people who live in and support Chicago. eCards are now used by residents and non-residents—limiting our ability to prioritize local communities. These new card options help remove barriers, ensure fairness and support CPL’s mission to serve all Chicagoans.
What does this mean for you?
If you currently have an eCard, you’ll need to upgrade it. Visit any CPL location with identification (valid ID with your name, photo and Chicago address) to receive a Full Access Library Card or a Temporary Access Card. If you do not have identification, you can receive a Temporary Access Card (valid for 90 days). You can access an application online at: chipublib.org/librarycard.
For more detailed information on policy changes, read our news article here: chipublib.org/cardupdates. Thank you for being a part of the CPL community and helping us make resources more equitable for everyone.
NPR story Here
