Celebrate your freedom to read every time you use your library card!
Getting Your Library Card
These special library cards will be available to current and new cardholders. A few things you'll want to know:
- If you already have a library card, this will replace your current library card.
- If this is your first library card, you will need to apply for a card first (in person or online).
- Specialty cards are only available at
library locations and you must be present to get a library card. Be sure to bring your photo ID and proof of address.
- If you have an e-card, you can upgrade to a full access card for free to get a limited edition card.
- Let Freedom Read library cards are available to Sacramento county residents.
A message from Peter Coyl, Sacramento Public Library Director & CEO
The public library stands as an institution to provide readers a mirror into their own lives, and more importantly a window into someone else’s. This can only happen when readers can make their own decisions about what to read. However, efforts to restrict and take away that freedom continue across our country.
In the last year, the number of attempts to remove books from libraries has increased 65% according to the 2024 State of America’s Libraries report produced by the American Library Association. A recent article by CalMatters highlighted book banning in California as well as efforts in our state to protect the right to read. As I said in that article: Not every book is meant for every reader. Just because a book is not right for your child or your family, does not mean it is wrong for everyone else.
Libraries are not meant to be an echo chamber. We are proud to provide a variety of ideas, thoughts, and philosophies (that often conflict) about topics including religion, politics, science, and history (which may be controversial or not agreed upon).
Sacramento Public Library will continue to provide access to a broad range of ideas, types of materials, programs, and speakers to appeal to our diverse community. Our celebration of the right to read this year is a continuation of our commitment to our First Amendment right to read freely. We hope you’ll join us as we reaffirm this bedrock principle of America and its libraries.
5 Things to Do with Your Library Card
1. Get free ebooks, audiobooks, and more in our
digital collection.
2. Stream
music and video for free from your mobile device.
3. Borrow household tools, cameras, instruments, and more from our
Library of Things.
4. Connect with a live tutor and get
homework help.
5. Get personalized
reading recommendations based on your interests.
Additional Resources: