Welcome! A library card is available to anyone who lives within the Helen Plum Library District. Please review the library's Lending Guidelines.
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Sign up for a new card:
Step 1: Complete the online form.
Step 2: If approved through our online verification, you will receive an email with your new Library card number so you can begin enjoying all the resources Helen Plum Library offers right away!
If we are unable to approve you online, you’ll receive an email with instructions to bring in your valid ID with current address, staff will be able to verify and make your card.
Step 3: Bring the necessary ID (see below) to the Front Desk when picking up your new card.
Step 4: Enjoy your new Helen Plum Library card!
Renew your library card:
Step 1: Complete this online renewal form.
Step 2: A staff member will contact you via email to complete the process
Please note: Online renewals allow us to offer a temporary card renewal in order to give you immediate Library access and time to visit us at the Library to verify your address, which renews your card for the full three years.
When picking up your new library card:
If you have a valid Illinois driver’s license or state ID with your current address, that is the only form of identification you need to apply for a library card. If you do not have a driver’s license or state ID with your current address, you’ll need to bring in one of the following items along with a photo ID:
- Utility bill
- Closing papers or rental agreement
- Bank statement
- Credit card statement
These must be dated and must show your name and current address.
If you are under 18 years of age, you will need a parent or legal guardian to register for a card.
A non-resident card is for families who live outside the Helen Plum Library District, commonly called unincorporated Lombard. A fee is determined for a nonresident card by using the same method for determining resident taxpayers’ annual rate, using the Net Taxable Value appearing on a registrant’s tax bill.
If you are renting outside the Library District, the fee is determined according to Illinois statute. Qualifying renters may purchase a library card by paying an annual fee equal to 15 percent of their monthly rent as indicated on their lease. Once the fee is paid, all family members residing at that residence can receive a library card. Please be sure to bring your most recent property tax bill or lease if you are renting. Unincorporated renter’s cards expire annually.
A property owner within the boundaries of the Library District may obtain a library card at no cost. Please be sure to bring your most current property tax bill. Only one card is issued. Cards for property owners expire every three years.
A business card can be obtained by those who own a business within the Library District. The business owner must present a letter, on company letterhead, stating the desire to have a business library card. The library card will be opened in the business’s name with the company’s top administrator being responsible for all account activity. Business library cards expire every three years.
Cardholders from other libraries (Reciprocal Borrowing)
You can use cards from other Illinois libraries at Helen Plum Library. By registering your home library card you will be able to check out most Helen Plum Library items. Please note: Some items and services are limited to Helen Plum Library cardholders.
To register your card:
- Bring your valid home library card and current identification to the Front Desk.
- Staff will verify that you are in good standing with your home library.
- Your expiration date is set by your home library.