In this article, you will discover 5 libraries that provide online library cards for book lovers, even if you live out of state. And the 2 worldwide libraries that readers living anywhere can get a library card or membership from.
Plus a simple way to use OverDrive to find libraries to join internationally, or in your local area.
And because OverDrive is one of the largest and leading library distributors of ebooks, audiobooks, and more, we’ve added all our contemporary romance novels to their catalog for romance readers to check out.
Click here to see our novels on OverDrive
Online Libraries for Book Lovers in the US
Keep in mind that to apply for any out-of-state library card online, you will need at least a government-issued photo ID, and/or proof of residence.
Most of the libraries also require an application fee which is non-refundable. However, you can apply to most if not all of these online libraries directly on their websites.
Note: The Orange County Library System and Scribd has the most amount of eBooks and audiobooks.
1. Orange County Library System, FL
Costs: $125 per year.
This is what their website states:
Fee cards are available to anyone residing outside of our service area. Fee cards are non-refundable and are available for 3 months ($75), 6 months ($100) or for one year ($125).
Costs: $40 per year.
This is what their website states:
Non-residents may obtain a library card for $40 annually or $20 for 6 months.
Fees can be paid using personal check or money order made out to City of Houston. You can apply in person, by mail, or online.
3. Westchester Library System, NY
Costs: $75 per year.
This is what their website states:
If you live outside of Westchester County and DO NOT work, go to school, or own property in Westchester, you may purchase a card from the Westchester Library System at an annual fee of $75. For patrons aged 65 and over, a System card can be purchased at a discounted price of $35.
4. Charlotte Mecklenburg Library, NC
Costs: $45 per year.
This is what their website states:
The $45 non-resident fee is a one-time-per-year charge per household.
The annual non-resident fee for adults 62 years and older is $35.
The 2 Online Libraries Available Worldwide
1. Scribd Digital Library (Referral Link)
Scribd is a digital library available worldwide, which means you can become a member (irrespective of where you live) so far as your local service providers or authorities have not blocked it.
Scribd provides access to ebooks, audiobooks, podcasts, magazines & news articles, and more for a monthly fee. They usually have a 30-day free trial, however, make sure you read their Terms of Service before you sign up.
Costs: At the time of publishing this article, it cost $9.99 USD (plus tax where applicable) per month.
To subscribe to Scribd, feel free to use our referral link below.
Click here to sign up for a Scribd membership (Referral link)
And to see our romance novels on Scribd, simply click here.
2. Orange County Library System in FL
As of publishing this article, this library (number 1 above) allows people living outside the US to apply for their online library cards for non-residents. Even if you are not a US citizen or permanent resident.
Costs: 3 Months @ $75, 6 Months @ $100, and 1 Year @ $125.
On your online application form, make sure you check the box Out of Country or United States. Then enter your address, correct email address, phone number, date of birth, and a Valid Driver’s License, State Issued ID, or Passport ID.
How to Use OverDrive to Find Libraries
First, visit the OverDrive website below to find a library that’s closer to your residence.
Click here to visit the OverDrive Library Finder
Second, enter the name of your town and country, or zip code into the box, then hit the Go button to get a list of libraries.
If you are not a member of the libraries shown, contact them to see how you can become a member.
That’s it.
For more information, you can visit the OverDrive Help Page.
A FREE Library Extension
If you want to see whether a book you are about to purchase is available at your library or not, install this free Library Browser Extension to your web browser.
(Watch the video below to see how it works.)
Final Thoughts
Libraries are one of the most affordable ways to get eBooks, audiobooks, movies, magazines, etc., especially during difficult financial periods.
So if you know online libraries that offer library cards that are either free or paid, share them in the comments below.
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