Living in the DC metropolitan area comes with an amazing perk that many people don’t know about: most library systems in the Washington region allow residents of other jurisdictions to get a library card without paying a non-resident fee through reciprocal agreements. This means you can collect library cards from multiple counties and dramatically expand your access to books, especially through digital platforms like Libby!
Complete List of Participating DC Area Library Systems
Here are all the jurisdictions where you can get a free library card if you live anywhere in the participating reciprocal network:
District of Columbia
- Washington, DC
Maryland
- Montgomery County
- Prince George’s County
- Frederick County
Virginia Counties and Cities
- Arlington County
- Fairfax County
- Loudoun County
- Prince William County
- Fauquier County
- Alexandria
- Falls Church
- Manassas and Manassas Park
Why Collect Multiple Library Cards?
Having multiple library cards gives you access to:
- Larger Digital Collections: Each library system has its own collection of ebooks, audiobooks, and digital magazines on Libby/OverDrive
- Shorter Wait Times: Popular books might have long wait lists at one library but be immediately available at another
- Unique Titles: Some books are only available in certain library systems
- Multiple Holds: You can place holds on the same popular book at multiple libraries to get it faster
How to Use This System
- Get Your Cards: Visit any library location in these jurisdictions with a photo ID and proof of address from any participating area
- Download Libby: The Libby app lets you manage all your library cards in one place
- Add All Your Cards: In Libby, you can add library cards from multiple systems
- Search and Reserve: When you want a book, search across all your libraries to find the shortest wait time
- Read Anywhere: Use Libby on your phone/tablet, or transfer books to your Kobo ereader, Kindle, or other devices
The Historical Background
The reciprocal agreement between Prince George’s, Montgomery, Fairfax, and Prince William Counties dates back to 1969 and the City of Falls Church was added in 1973. In 1977, the Council of Governments passed a resolution recommending reciprocal library card agreements between all member jurisdictions.
Pro Tips
- Maryland Residents Get Extra Benefits: All Maryland residents are eligible for free library cards from the library systems of each of the state’s twenty-three counties and Baltimore City
- Keep Cards Current: Most library cards expire every 3 years and must be renewed in person
- Check Online First: Many systems now allow you to apply for a digital card online, then upgrade to full privileges when you visit in person
This system essentially gives you access to one of the largest library networks in the country, all for free! Whether you’re a voracious reader, researcher, or just want access to the latest bestsellers without the wait, collecting DC area library cards is definitely worth the effort.