Welcome to Ottawa Public Library! We have several types of library membership cards.
The best way to get a library card is to visit one of our 33 branches in person, with photo ID and proof of address. You can sign up online for some of the cards.
With a library card, you can get access to:
- Books, music, videos;
- Online resources for consumer research, online classes, language learning, newspaper reading and more
- Ebooks, audiobooks, streaming video, music streaming
- Video games
- Digital tools like laser cutters, public computers
- Meeting rooms
View all membership options below.
If you live in Ottawa
If you have lost your library card / are not sure if you have a library card
Adults
18 and older
Teens
16-17 Years - no parental signature required
Children
0-15 Years - parental signature required.
Children - no internet access
0-15 Years - reduced membership with no internet access, requires parental signature.
For residents who cannot visit a branch due to age, mobility, or illness
For residents with disabilities
For local businesses or organizations
Allows employees of an organization to borrow library materials for work on a single account.
Requires a letter on company letterhead signed by a person of authority who can release funds for fees or lost material.
Note: due to vendor licensing regulations, institutional members do not have access to electronic resources and are excluded from SmartLibrary.
If you have no ID/permanent address
If you live outside of Ottawa
For Indigenous people
Anishinābe Algonquin, First Nation, Inuit, and Métis people who live outside Ottawa’s municipal boundaries have access to free Library membership if they:
- Live on-reserve in Kitigan Zibi Anishinaabeg First Nation and Pikwakanagan First Nation.
- Reside in the Ottawa-Gatineau region, specifically the Quebec side of the Kichi Zibi.
For individuals and families who do not live in Ottawa
- Individual Adults (18yrs+): $90
- Household (multiple people at same address): $180
- Clients of 12 libraries in the National Capital Region can use some OPL services with a SmartLibrary card.
For individuals who are visiting Ottawa short term
- Less than 3 months: $10 / month
- 3 months: $25
- Internet-only card