A library card unlocks more than just the ability to borrow books – it’s a key to information, opportunity, and enrichment. It lets you borrow items from our catalog that you can read, watch, or listen to, but your library card also gives you access to news resources, job and career tools, learning and education services, skillbuilding apps, streaming and on-demand entertainment, and so much more... all for free.

The Kansas City Public Library’s eCard offers a way for you to immediately sign up and access our digital collections – eBooks, streaming video and music, digital audiobooks, research databases, and other online services. And in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Library has enhanced borrowing privileges for eCards. 

Reminder: if you already have a physical KC Library card, you don’t need an eCard – you already can access and enjoy all of our materials and services. 

SIGN UP FOR eCARD NOW
More about Library cards >
 

What Your eCard Unlocks 

• Get immediate access to our Digital Branch, including: 

• eBooks and digital audiobooks 

• Streaming video 

• Free music downloads and streaming 

• Educational and skillbuilding tools, tutorials, videos, and courses 

• Digital magazines and newspapers 

• Online comic books 

• Dozens of research databases 

• eCard users can now borrow physical books, DVDs, and CDs, just like a regular library card. You can place holds on up to 25 items and borrow up to 25 physical items at a time. (a physical KC Library card permits holds of 100 items and 75 checkouts.). Visit our catalog >  

• Children of all ages may now apply for an eCard. The age range for eligible eCard users was previously set at age 13 or older, but with so many youth attending school remotely this year, we have eliminated the age limit to allow preschool, elementary, and home-schooled students a way to use Library resources and materials. 

• NOTE: Kansas City Public School students have automatic access to our physical and digital resources – their school I.D. also serves as their Kansas City Public Library card! The number will be KCPS00xxxxxxx (student's unique school I.D.) + 8-digit PIN (student's birthday). 

• An eCard now also allows patrons to log into the Library’s public computers, which are currently available by appointment at several locations. Learn more >  
   

SIGN UP FOR eCARD NOW 

More about Library cards >

Eligibility Requirements 

• Available for all ages 

• User must not have an existing or recently expired library card at the Kansas City Public Library 

• Applicants must live within the bi-state Kansas City metropolitan region 

• eCards are immediately active upon verification of email address 

• eCards cannot be used for certain activities, such as  borrowing Internet to Go kits. Learn more here >  

Need Help? 

If you have questions about library cards or experience problems signing up for an eCard, contact us online or call 816.701.3400.