Library Card & Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about library cards, borrowing materials, fine free policies, digital resources, and library services across the Madison County Library System. Browse frequently asked questions below or contact your local branch for additional assistance.

Getting a Library Card

Who is eligible for a free library card?

Any individual living in Madison County may be issued a library card at no charge. Library cards are issued to individuals and are not transferable among family members or friends.

Anyone may register for a library card by presenting a valid photo ID along with current mail displaying their name and address, dated within the last 90 days.

Individuals Who Own Property in Madison County:

Property owners must provide:

A deed listing the owner’s name and property address

A current-year tax receipt

The following individuals may qualify for a free non-resident library card:

Individuals attending post-secondary school in Madison County

Educators working in Madison County at all grade levels

Individuals employed in Madison County

Residents of counties bordering Madison County: Attala, Hinds, Holmes, Leake, Rankin, Scott, and Yazoo

Any individual meeting one of the above qualifications and providing an ID and proof of residency showing their name, address, and phone number may receive a non-resident library card at no charge.

Privileged Non-Resident Access:

Privileged Non-Residents may: Check out physical materials from all five library branches

Privileged Non-Residents may NOT:

Access eAudio or eBook materials through OverDrive (Libby) or Hoopla

How old does my child need to be to get a card?

Children may receive a library card at any age. A parent or legal guardian must accompany the child to complete and sign the application and accept responsibility for the library account.

How much does a library card cost?

Library cards are free. Replacement cards are also issued at no charge with valid identification.

How long is my card valid?

Library cards are valid for one year from the date they are issued. To continue enjoying library privileges after expiration, cards must be renewed in person at any MCLS branch location. Patrons renewing their card should present a valid photo ID and a current utility bill dated within the last 90 days to verify address information.

What information do I need for a library card?

All applicants must complete the library card application in person at one of our library branches to obtain a library card.

Patrons must provide:

A valid photo ID

One proof of residency

Applicants under the age of 18 must:

Have a parent or legal guardian present

Have the signature of a parent or guardian who is at least 18 years old

Borrowing Materials

How many items can I check out?

"Loan Limits have returned to 25 items per card. The following item types have reduced check out limits:

DVDs: Five (5) per card.

Audiobooks: Five (5) per card.

OverDrive eBooks / Downloadable Audiobooks: Five (5) per card.

Hoopla eBooks / Downloadable Audiobooks: Three (3) per card per month.

Learning Resource Center (LRC) Kits five (5) per card.

VOX Books five (5) per card"

How long can I keep items?

Most materials may be borrowed for 21 days. DVDs are loaned for 7 days, and digital items may vary based on selection.

How many times can I renew items?

Items may typically be renewed twice if they are not on hold for another patron.

Can I return books after hours?

Yes, materials may be returned using book drops located at each branch.

Digital & Special Services

Can I access digital materials?

Yes, cardholders can access eBooks, audiobooks, and streaming services. Some restrictions apply to certain non-resident users.

Can I request items the library doesn’t have?

Yes, materials may be requested through Interlibrary Loan (ILL), with some limitations on newer or non-circulating items. 

Fines & Policies

Do you charge overdue fines?

All Madison County Library System locations are fine free for overdue materials.

What does “fine free” mean?

Fine free means the library no longer charges daily overdue fines on late materials. The goal is to remove barriers and provide equal access to resources for everyone in our community.

Why did the library eliminate fines?

Removing overdue fines helps create stronger communities by making library services accessible regardless of a person’s ability to pay. Studies have shown that fines discourage people from using libraries and do not improve return rates.

Have other libraries eliminated late fines?

Yes! In the U.S., over 500 libraries have adopted fine free policies, and the number is growing every day.

Does fine free mean there is no responsibility?

No. Materials still need to be returned on time. The library continues sending reminders and accounts may be blocked for long overdue items.

Are all materials fine free?

Almost everything is fine free, including:

Books

Movies

Audiobooks

Magazines

Downloadable Materials

Do lost or damaged item fees still apply?

Yes. Replacement and processing fees for lost or damaged materials still apply and must be resolved before account restrictions are removed.

What happens if my account still has a balance?

While overdue fines have been waived, charges for lost or damaged materials may still remain on accounts. Staff can assist with resolving balances or returning overdue items.

Can I still donate to the library?
Yes. Donations are always appreciated and help support library programs, collections, and community services.

Applications

How do I apply for a library card?

All applicants must complete an application in person at a branch location. Applicants under 18 must have a parent or guardian present.

What library card applications are available?

The Madison County Library System offers several library card applications based on residency and eligibility requirements.

Available applications include:

Card Application in Spanish (Solicitud para la tarjeta de la biblioteca)

Madison County Resident Library Card Application (PDF)

Madison County Property Owner Library Card Application (PDF)

Privileged Non-Resident Library Card Application (PDF)

Applications must be completed in person at a Madison County Library System branch location.

All applicants must provide:

A valid photo ID

A current piece of mail dated within the last 90 days displaying your name and proof of address. 

Children must be present to receive a library card. Applicants under the age of 18 must also have a parent or legal guardian present to provide a signature and accept responsibility for the account.

All applicants must complete an application in person at a branch location. Applicants under 18 must have a parent or guardian present.

Still have questions?

Contact your local branch or email feedback@mcls.ms for assistance.