Getting a Library Card

A valid library card is needed to borrow library materials. A Juvenile Card is issued through the fifth grade. An Adult Card is issued starting in the sixth grade. Proper identification is required. All cards must be renewed every three (3) years. Adult applicants must show proof of residence within the Smithtown Special Library District in order to qualify for a Smithtown Library card. Initial application and subsequent renewal must be done in person. The burden of proof lies with the applicant. 

Proof of Residence

Adult applicants must show one (1) of the following which MUST include your name and current street address (a post office box is not sufficient proof of residency):

  • Current driver's license
  • Non-driver photo identification
  • Photo identification with name and address
  • Current automobile registration or car insurance card
  • Current voter registration postcard
Original, printed copies or on-line statements will be accepted for the following:
  • Utility bill (dated within 60 days)
  • Major credit card bill, e.g., department store, bank card
  • Current bank statement
  • Current deed or tax bill

If you do not have any of these with street address (e.g., if one rents and does not receive bills), the adult applicant must submit BOTH of the following :

  • A notarized statement from the homeowner stating that you are residing at their residence.
  • Identification with your name, e.g., school ID, credit card.
Library cards are issued to minors who reside in the Smithtown Special Library District.  A minor's residency shall be presumed to be that of his or her parents or legal guardian.  Where a minor's parents are divorced the Library will allow each parent that resides within the Smithtown Special Library District to obtain a library card for the child.  A parent or legal guardian must be present with their minor child through grade five (5) at the time of initial application.  Minors in grades 6 thru 12 can show a school ID as proof of residence.   
 
Library cards are issued to Business Owners in the Smithtown Special Library District.  Proof of ownership is required at the time of application.   Acceptable proofs of ownership must include owner's name. 
  • Lease for property
  • Business license
  • Utility bill (electric, water, etc.)
  • Property tax bill
  • Business check that includes the person's name and Smithtown Special Library District address
  
Livebrary Digital Card
 
Suffolk County residents can apply for an eCard through the online card service through a form on Livebrary.com. This eCard will give you access to Livebrary electronic resources and OverDrive/Libby. The eCard has a 30-day expiration (from the creation date). You will have to visit one of our four library buildings to upgrade your eCard to a full-access library card.
 

Always bring your library card with you when you come to the library. Your library card is like a credit card -- if it is lost or stolen, please notify the library at once. You are responsible for all materials checked out on your card.