Why Do I Need to Carry My Library Card?

06/08/22

Library staff get this question regularly, so have put together some information to explain why we ask that your bring your card, along with some alternative solutions.

Back when you signed up for your Summit County Library card, you read our Borrowing Agreement and signed the back of the library card agreeing to:

• be responsible for all materials borrowed on this card.
• present this card to use library services.
• report its loss, theft, or your change of address immediately.

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" Why is it so important that I carry my library card? "

This is not because library staff enjoy being mean or because they don't remember you when you have lived in the County for 30 years. 
It is: 

1. For Your Safety. With your card someone could access your online account including your personal information and our digital resources. They would be able to check out items on your card, not return them and you would be responsible for the replacement fees. By knowing where your card is and carrying it, you make sure this cannot happen.

2. For Your Privacy. You are able to use our self-check machines at any of our 3 locations, check out your holds and items without staff assistance. 

3. It can be fun. Your kids can proudly carry their very own Fox Library Card and learn responsibility by checking out and returning items they pick out themselves. Summit County Libraries also features a "Where in the World Is Your Library Card?" series on social media. Snap a picture or selfie of your library card enjoying local activities or adventures around the globe and we will feature it on our Instagram account and Facebook.

4. Get More Library Cards in Colorado. Did you know your Library Card is part of the Colorado Libraries Collaborate (CLC) program that offers reciprocal library cards? Show your Summit County card at another participating library in Colorado and receive one of their cards too.

" But I don't like carrying my card. "

Here are some solutions: 

1. Memorize Your Card Number. This is easier than you think. All cards are 420 followed by 4 zeros, so you just need to memorize the last 6 digits. Then you can type it in by hand into the self-check machine or read it to a staff member.

2. Take a picture and save it in your phone. Then you can type it in by hand into the self-check machine or read it to a staff member.

3. Use the free Sto-card app on your mobile device. This allows you to keep all your loyalty cards in one app. From the biggest supermarket to your local library - you can add the card to Stocard. Organizing your many cards has never been this easy.

* Don't forget to add your password to the notes.

" I accidentally forgot my card. "

Library staff policy allows an exception to be made 2 times. Staff will request a photo id. If you do not have that on you either, we can use a telephone or email address. After two times, we consider the card lost and ask that you buy a replacement card for $2.50.

" I lost my library card. "

It is important to report this to us immediately. Your first Summit County Library Card is free. Your replacement card is $2.50 and you can pay using check, cash or card.
 

" You wouldn't let my friend pick up a book for me." 
 

Library staff will only allow Authorized Users designated on your card to check your items out. These are family or friends you included on your library card application.  If you would like to add any names later, please contact library staff.  It is preferred if that authorized person brings your card with them or they will need to show a photo ID.

Questions? Contact a local library or send an email to summitcountylibraries@gmail.com