Why You Need Your Library Card

At the Taylor Community Library

WHY WE ALWAYS NEED YOUR LIBRARY CARD

Positive identification: Your library card identifies you as the person whose account materials are being checked out to. If we believe that the person presenting a library card is NOT the person named on the account, we reserve the right to request photo ID before checking materials out.

Faster Service: Scanning the barcode on your library card is much faster than asking a librarian to type in your name or account number. Using barcode scanners instead of keyboards saves time.

Fewer Mistakes: Many patrons in the Lackawanna County Library System have the same or similar names. Searching for accounts by the number rather than the name greatly reduces the chances of checking materials out to the wrong account. We require cards because we believe it is the safest, fairest and most effective policy.

"BUT, YOU KNOW ME!" Some desk staff may recognize you and others may not. It's not realistic or fair to expect all desk staff to recognize all regular library patrons.

When you go to a supermarket, a department store, or a government office such as the registry of motor vechicles, you would always bring your purse or wallet and a driver's license or photo ID. It makes sense to have the same expectations for the library.

If you LOSE YOUR LIBRARY CARD: Present some form of identification at the library's circulation desk to purchase a replacement card. A photo ID is the preferred form of ID but a bill with your current address will suffice. If you are under age and do not have ID, a parent, guardian or caregiver must be present to receive a new card. If your CARD IS STOLEN or you think someone else is using it, call us.We will block your account until you can come in with your photo ID and receive a new card and account number.