Types of Memberships

Anyone can get a Library Card (and everyone should!)

At the Norfolk County Public Library, there are different types of Library Memberships:

In accordance with the Library Act, R.S.O. 1990, chapter 44, section 23 all residents are eligible to apply for a FREE Library Card. A resident card is available to all permanent residents of Ontario.

There are three types of Resident Library Memberships:

  • Adult - Individuals aged 18 and older can access the Library’s complete in-house collection, Digital Library, and Online Resources. Adults must provide identification with proof of residence.
  • Youth/Young Adult - Individuals aged 14 to 17 can access the Library’s complete in-house collection, Digital Library, and Online Resources. Proof of age may be requested, and proof of residence is required; however, a parent’s signature is not needed to obtain the card.
  • Child/Juvenile - Children under 14 may apply for a Library Card with a parent or guardian’s signature. The parent or guardian must present ID to verify residence and should sign the card only if they are willing to take responsibility for the child’s selection and use of Library materials and resources. DVD and video borrowing restrictions apply.

Click here to download a Library Card Application Form

NCPL encourages Library users to have individual Library Cards. However, sometimes an organization would like to have one card for the entire organization or group. 

Cards are available to individuals serving organizations who wish to sign out books for multiple people.

NCPL encourages patrons to have individual library cards. However, sometimes an organization would like to have one card for the entire organization or group. An Organization library card has been created to fulfill this need.

A day care centre, home schooling group, senior’s facility, assisted living residence, hospital, church, school teacher, or instructor for example may apply for and receive an organization library card. With this card comes an extended loan period of 42 days (6 weeks). Borrowing privileges include up to 50 items per library card, the same as a regular library card, which means only 3 non-fiction items on the same subject or 3 high demand items such as seasonal and holiday materials. No fines are accumulated on a Partnership library card however, lost and/or damaged fees will apply as usual. The high demand loan period of 14 days still applies. This library card cannot be used for interlibrary loan services.

Proof of address for the person responsible for the library card is required and proof that the person is part of the organization is required, such as a business card or swipe card.

Download Organisation Card Application Form

Virtual Cards can be issued to folks who do not have a residential address. 

A Virtual Library Card can be granted to anyone living in Norfolk County who may not have a home address, so they can access our Online Resources, Digital Library, and other services. A Virtual Card may be upgraded to a full Membership if the applicant brings identification with their name and Norfolk County Address to their local Library Branch.

Norfolk County residents who cannot safely visit the library due to a chronic, temporary, or age-related health condition are eligible for Home Service membership.

The Norfolk County Public Library (NCPL) is reaching out to all citizens who are confined to their homes, or are in an assisted care or long term care facility. Home service will provide library materials that will enhance their quality of life and promote the joy of life long learning. This service is available for all ages and is provided free to those who meet the requirements of the programme. Long term, short term and seasonal services are available. Information and applications for Home service is available at all branches or by contacting the coordinator at the Simcoe Branch.

Click here for more information.