Get a Library Card
Register in-person at a Welcome Desk in the lobby or through the online registration form.
Online applicants 13 and older, living in incorporated Northbrook, can place holds for up to 30 days before picking up their physical card.
To pick up your library card, bring current, unexpired identification with your full name and address within the Village.
Already Have a Card?
You can manage your account online, or call the Circulation Department at 847-272-6224.
Northbrook Residents & Property Owners
Incorporated Northbrook
Eligibility: Free for all residents. Cards never expire while residing in incorporated Northbrook.
- Under Age 15: Must be accompanied by a parent/guardian with proof of address.
- Non-Resident Property Owners: Eligible for one card per residential or commercial parcel (proof of ownership required).
- Required Documentation: Current, unexpired ID with full name and address (e.g., Driver's License, State ID, Passport, Lease, Mortgage Statement, Utility Bill postmarked within 30 days).
Unincorporated Northbrook
Cards are purchased for 6 months or 1 year and cover the entire household. Fees are calculated using your second installment property tax bill or rental lease (15% of one month's rent).
Fee Exemptions:
- Children ages 18 and under.
- Veterans with a 70% or greater service-connected disability (or their unmarried surviving spouse).
- Unmarried surviving spouses of service members killed in the line of duty.
Businesses & Organizations
- Incorporated: Free 3-year card (limit 1 per business). Apply at the Welcome Desk with proof of address (letterhead, business card, tax bill, or lease).
- Unincorporated: Available for purchase (6-month or 1-year terms). Requires a current tax bill or lease (fee is 15% of monthly rent if leased).
- Requirements: Must be submitted by an owner, partner, or senior officer. One designated responsible person must be named. The organization is responsible for all fees.
Not sure if you live in incorporated Northbrook?
Check your address in the Village of Northbrook's Community Information Portal
Senior Facility Outreach & Home Delivery Service
Free material delivery and card registration for local retirement communities and Northbrook residents with limited mobility.
Contact the Fiction & Media Department at 847-272-2830.
Nannies & Au Pairs
- Eligibility: Must live with a host family in incorporated Northbrook.
- Requirements: Photo ID and a caregiver contract/letter from the agency or host family stating employment details and duration. The host family is responsible for items checked out.
Teachers
- Valid for one school year for classroom materials and eResources only (not for personal use, borrowing from other libraries, or Museum Passes).
- Requirements: Principal approval, valid photo ID, and inclusion on the school's eligible teacher list. Schools are responsible for lost materials.
Temporary Visitors & Residents in Transition
Seasonal visitors or residents in transition temporarily residing within Northbrook can receive a library card upon providing a photo ID and a letter from a social service agency, temporary employer and/or landlord/relative or guardian verifying the temporary address.
Renewal: Privileges can be extended every 90 days with proof of address.