Each year, libraries across the country celebrate National Library Card Sign-Up Month and we want you to celebrate with us! 

So, what is National Library Card Sign-Up Month? 

The name kinda gives it away, but why we celebrate it might be a bit less obvious. September is traditionally the start of a new school year and the American Library Association and libraries unite in a national effort to make sure every child signs-up for their own library card. 

A library card is more than just a means of checking out library materials… it’s a way of assisting parents and caregivers in saving hundreds of dollars on educational resources and services for their child. A library card gives free access to STEAM programs and activities, educational resources, in-person and virtual homework help, and not to mention the expertise of library staff. And all of these wonderful benefits aren’t just for the kids! Adults have access to digital resources and apps, databases, engaging programs, and so much more!

So if you don’t have a library card, we would love for you to stop by any of our branches to sign up or create a library account here! All Maryland residents can get a library card with CCPL for free.  We have a variety of types of cards to choose from!

CCPL Library Card

This is the standard, full access library card available to those ages 18 and over. With your CCPL library card, you have full access to all online and digital resources, Interlibrary loan, as well as all materials available in our branches. These cards are currently valid for a 10 year period.

PACREG Library Card

A PACREG library card is a temporary card obtained by signing up for a library card online. You will receive a library card number starting with PACREG followed by a series of numbers, please keep this number as it will be used to access our services. The card will be good for a predetermined amount of time, during which a physical card should be obtained.

Library Cards for Minors 

We issue full access cards to minors* on the request and consent of the parent or legal guardian. Although the consenting parent or legal guardian is asked to sign the application, the card is registered in the child’s name and is considered to be that child’s card by the library. *Minors 16 years of age and older do not need consent from a parent or legal guardian.

What you should know about the use of your child’s card:

  • You have agreed to be responsible for any charges on your child’s card.
  • You have agreed that your child can use any library resource including the Internet with the presentation of this card.
  • You may access your child’s records at any time in the library with his/her card or online using your child’s card and password.

Kids Cards

The library issues special “Kids Cards” with limited borrowing privileges.

This card is available for kids and teens who do not have a parent or legal guardian present to sign for a full access card. A short registration form is required with the child’s first and last name and birthdate. There is no minimum age requirement for this card and it will expire when the cardholder turns 18.

Kids Cards may have a maximum of 15 items checked out at one time. Checkouts are limited to books, kits and audio books.

Your CCPL library card can be used in any public library in Charles, Calvert and St. Mary’s counties. Loan policies and rules vary for each county.

Want to learn more about our library cards? Check out our Welcome Page where you can find all the details!