How to Get a Library Card

Residency Requirements:

To receive a library card, patrons must live within the corporate city limits of Indianola, be a rural resident of Warren County or live in a city/town whose library belongs to the State Library’s Open Access program.  Fees apply for anyone not meeting these criteria [See Policy for Service with Other Cities and Fees for Non-Resident Cards].   

Exceptions: Simpson College students, regardless of their permanent address, can receive a library card.  The expiration date is set for the end of the school year and can be renewed every year as long as they are enrolled at Simpson College.   Temporary cards may be issued at the discretion of the library director.  Patrons issued temporary cards may check out five items at a time. 

Receiving a Card:

To receive a library card, patrons must complete a registration form in person and provide proof of identity in person.   Acceptable proof includes a photo ID along with identification with their current address preprinted on it.  Examples of such identification are:  driver’s license, bills, magazines, etc.

If a patron is under age 16, a parent/guardian must read through and sign the privacy flyer to be sure they are informed and understand the limitations they and the library staff have regarding their child’s account.  The child must be present and must sign the registration slip as well as the parent.

Once a card has been issued, cardholders may check out materials from any part of the library.

Library cards are issued at no cost.

Library cards must be updated every two years. Records not used for four years will expire and be deleted from the system.

Cardholder Responsibilities:

Registered borrowers must present their library card or a digital representation to check out materials.  Identification with current address pre-printed on it may be used.

Cardholders are responsible for all items checked out on their cards and the payment of fines or fees incurred for those items.