Library Cards
at Skokie Public Library
| Skokie residents | Non-Skokie students |
| Skokie businesses | Non-Skokie residents |
| Skokie schools | Lost library cards |
Skokie Residents
Applications for Library cards are available at the East and West Circulation Desks. One form of identification with name, photo, and address (such as a current driver's license or state I.D.) that demonstrates Skokie residency is required. The signature of a parent or guardian is required for applicants aged 15 and younger. Skokie Public Library cardholders are also entitled to basic borrowing privileges at any of the North Suburban Library System member public libraries.
Skokie Businesses
Companies based in Skokie may apply for a business Library card. A
typewritten request on company letterhead that includes the address,
phone, and email of the business is required. The letter must list the
names of employees authorized for library privileges and state that the company will
accept responsibility for any unresolved fines and/or missing materials.
The letter must be signed by the owner, president, or, in the case of a
large corporation, the head of a specific department. Employees listed in the letter will receive individual Library cards which will be mailed to their business; only these employees will be permitted to check out materials on their card. Skokie Public Library reserves the right to request identification of the employee to prove they are the owner of the library card.
Instructions and a sample letter are available for download.
Skokie Schools
Teachers working in schools that serve the children of Skokie are eligible for Skokie Public Library cards. The school principal must sign an authorization form supplied by the Library and send a staff list approving use of the card by the administrators, teachers, and aides included on the list. Each person authorized for checkout privileges has their own Library card with a separate barcode. The card is issued first in the name of the school, followed by the person's name (e.g., EDISON SCHOOL Linda Jones). Library cards are given to each school for distribution to school personnel.
Non-Skokie Students
Patrons who hold a valid library card from one of the North Suburban Library System member public libraries may bring their library card and a photo I.D. (such as a current driver's license or state I.D.) with their current address to Skokie Public Library to register for reciprocal borrowing privileges. Proof of their enrollment at the Skokie school for the current school year is required (class schedule, proof of tuition payment, or letter from the school principal). If the student is under 16 years of age, a parent or guardian must provide proof of home address. The card is valid for the school year, September through August. The fee for one year is $150, but will be pro-rated depending on when during the year the card is purchased.
Non-Skokie Residents
Patrons who hold a valid library card from one of the North Suburban Library System member public libraries may bring their library card and a photo I.D. (such as a current driver's license or state I.D.) with their current address to Skokie Public Library to register for reciprocal borrowing privileges. Chicago Public Library cardholders are not eligible for reciprocal borrowing privileges.
Patrons not eligible for reciprocal borrowing privileges may purchase a Skokie Public Library card for the cost of taxpayer support of north suburban libraries. The fee is $300 per year or $150 for a six-month card.
Lost Library Cards
Lost or stolen Skokie Library cards must be reported immediately to Skokie Public Library. There is a $1 charge for a replacement card. Please notify other libraries where you have registered your card. Remember, your library card is as valuable as a credit card.