Getting a library card is free and easy. If you live or own property anywhere in Hardin County, you are entitled to get a library card. The card is good at both branches of the Hardin County Public Library and on the Bookmobile. People who do not live or own property in Hardin County are able to purchase a non-resident card for one year.

You may pre-register on the Library’s website or in person at either Branch location or on the Bookmobile.

You must present your library card every time you check out an item. If you have forgotten your card, photo identification may be used in its place.

To Register in person:

Adults living, owning property in Hardin County or attending an institute of higher learning with facilities in Hardin County need to:

• Show proof that you reside or own property in Hardin County (automobile title/registration, personal pre-printed checks with name and address, recently postmarked mail with borrower’s name/address, current property tax bill [paid or unpaid]
• Show picture Identification (Kentucky driver’s license, state I.D. card, or current student I.D)

• Your mother, father, or legal guardian must sign your application, and provide a driver's license number or other identification.
• This application does not need to be filled out at the library. We will send one home. Just bring the finished application back to the library. Your parent or guardian does not have to come in with you as long as they have signed the form and given the needed information.
• Applicants 16 & 17 years old DO NOT need a parent’s signature when applying for a library card, providing they have a current valid Kentucky driver’s license.

• If you live within a county with which we have a reciprocal borrowing agreement, you can get a free card if your local library certifies that you are in good standing (no outstanding overdue material or fines).
• Present the form and positive identification as outlined in “Adult Library Card”.
• If you don’t have a card with your local public library, you may be issued a card upon giving positive identification and payment of an annual $5.00 fee.
• Non-resident cards expire after one year and can be renewed by either paying the fee or re-submitting the form. All fines and fees must be paid in full before the card can be renewed.

We will give temporary library cards to people who have been transferred to Hardin County on a temporary basis, are TDY, or are visiting relatives long-term. To apply for a temporary library card: Show picture identification and give proof of temporary residency.

• Provide library with permanent address.
• You are limited to five items at one time.
• Those five items must be returned before more materials can be borrowed.
• No videos, DVDs, audiobook, or interlibrary loan.
• This card expires in 180 days and cannot be renewed.

To register online:

• Enter the Library Catalog - click on the Patron Account
• Click the “register now” link.

Complete the form and submit it electronically for review by the HCP staff. You will receive a library card number once you have shown a photo ID and proof of residency.

To renew a card:

Lost cards:
Please report LOST or STOLEN cards at either 769-6337 or 351-9999 immediately; anything checked out on your card is your responsibility. There is a small replacement fee for a lost or stolen library card.

Change of address:
Please report any address, phone, or name changes to the front desk.

Responsibilities
DO report any loss or damage to materials borrowed on your card.
DO notify the library immediately if your card is lost: 769-6337 or 351-9999.
DO NOT lend your card to others. Items checked out on your card are your responsibility.