The HCPL Knowledge Card is our full-service library card. It's free at any branch location with proof of address and gives you access to all of our online and in-library collections.
The HCPL Enhanced+ Card is a full service library card and a verified photo ID in one
The HCPL iKnow Digital Access Card gives you instant access to our huge collection of online resources including research tools and eBooks, as well as streaming video and music. Get your iKnow Card now!
With your Knowledge Card, you have total access to the library's ever-growing collections of books and DVDs, streaming video and music, eBooks and eAudiobooks, and our second-to-none selection of online research and learning tools. Your Knowledge Card also lets you borrow materials from partner libraries across the region including Bellaire City Library , the Montgomery County Memorial Library System , and Pasadena Public Library
The Knowledge Card truly is the only library card you will ever need.
Print and fill out a Knowledge Card Application, then take it, and proof of address, to your nearest Harris County Public Library branch. Or you can apply in-person at any of our 26 branch locations.
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Enhanced+ cards contain your full name, date of birth, gender, address, library card number, expiration date, and photo. Enhanced library cards can be used as a su pplemental form of Photo ID. The E nhanced+ Library Card does not replace the HCPL full-service Knowledge Card. It is simply an additional option for library users who might benefit from another form of photo ID.
The Enhanced+ Library Card is a full-service Harris County Public Library Card and a verified photo ID in one that includes your library card number, photograph, address, date of birth, gender marker, and the expiration date on the front, and a scannable barcode on the back. The card is available from all full-service Harris County Public Library locations except Baldwin Boettcher Branch @ Mercer Park, Texas Medical Center Library, and Harris County Law Library. The card can be used at all Harris County Public Library locations, as well as online to access our eBooks and other digital resources. It may also be used to borrow eligible materials at all of Harris County Public Library’s reciprocal partner locations: Bellaire City Library, Lone Star College Libraries, Montgomery County Memorial Libraries, and Pasadena Public Library.
What are required to apply for an Enhanced+ Library Card?In order to apply for the Enhanced+ Library Card, library staff will need to verify your identity and residency. Here is the list of eligible documents: Documents for Proof of Identity and Residency. You may need to bring more than one document to prove your identity. Read the information on the list carefully. You will need to present original or certified copies of the required documents when you apply for a card. You must be present to verify documents and have your photo taken. Images that have been printed or provided digitally by yourself will not be accepted. Only Texas residents are eligible for the Enhanced+ Library Card. See the application form. For customers who don't have permanent address in Texas, alternatives are listed in the Proof of Residency section. Proof of identities | Documentos para prueba de identidad y residencia
When will I receive my Enhanced+ Library Card?Enhanced+ Library Cards are printed on-site at all full-service Harris County Public Library locations at the time the application is accepted and the applicant’s photo is taken. You will leave with your Enhanced+ Library Card after your application is accepted. It should not take longer than 15 – 20 minutes to apply for and receive your Enhanced+ Library Card. There is no need to make an appointment.
Step 1:
Complete the Harris County Enhanced+ Library Card Application.
Step 2:
Visit any Harris County Public Library branch or participating community partner location.
This service is currently NOT available at Baldwin Boettcher, Harris County Law Library and Texas Medical Center Library.
Step 3:
Present documents that prove your identity and residence. See below for information and a full list of acceptable documents.
Step 4:
Your Enhanced+ Library Card will be made while you wait.
Identity document(s) must equal 3 points. Consult the chart below for document point values.
Original documents must be presented. Photocopies are not accepted.
• Verification of Release Form (Issued by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Refugee Resettlement)
• Written verification issued by a hospital, health care provider, or social services agency located in the state of Texas verifying that the applicant’s identity (must be signed and dated on official agency letterhead).
All applicants must present ONE of the following documents. The applicant’s name and Texas residential address must be on the document.
Digital/electronic residency documents are accepted.
