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Thursday, Jul. 11, 2024

Can Texas residents hold library cards from multiple libraries?

Brandy Ruiz, El Paso Matters
yes

There is no state law governing library cards, and policies related to who may obtain a card from a particular library are set by that library’s governing authority, according to the Texas Library Association.

Libraries often offer a physical card for general library needs, an electronic card for digital downloads, and other cards for services that can be obtained in person or through an online application – regardless of whether the applicant has a card from another library system.

For example, an El Paso County resident may obtain a library card from the city of El Paso’s Public Library and the El Paso County Library, as well from other library systems across the state.

Residents who hold a local library card may also register for TexShare, the library card program that gives access to participating libraries across Texas.

The TexShare website states 344 public libraries participated in the program in 2024.

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