Member Benefits
As a library member you can:
- Borrow items from our physical collections, including books, audiobooks, music, movies, magazines and more.
- Download content from our digital collections such as digital print and audiobooks; digital magazines and newspapers; streaming music and movies.
- Free access from home to the New York Times, language learning tools, expert research databases, genealogy resources, and more!
- Participate in our seasonal and yearlong reading challenges for all ages.
- Make reservations through our Museum Pass Program.
- Receive borrowing privileges at select nearby libraries.
Who Can Get a Card
Anyone who lives, works, owns property, or owns a business in Franklin Township can get a free library card. Proof of current address is required.
Minors
- Full Access Cards require a parent/guardian signature and proof of residency.
- Youth Access Cards (ages 12–17) allow limited borrowing and holds but full digital access; can be renewed annually and upgraded later.
Other Card Types
- Affiliate Cards are available to local business owners and their employees. Proof of employment is required and must be verified annually.
- Reciprocal Cards: Cards from certain nearby libraries can be used to register here. Borrowing privileges are limited and may vary by partner library. A full list is available on our Partner Libraries page.
- Paid Memberships are available for non-residents
- Full Year: $50.00
- Half-year: $25.00
Homebound Residents
If you cannot come in person to register for a library card, please apply online here so a digital card can be emailed to you. Share this card with your representative who can come in person to borrow on your behalf. The digital card can also be used to access any of our online services.
The library does not have an easy way to register homebound users who cannot apply online. For help, please contact the Head of Borrower Services.
The Somerset County Library System offers Home Borrowing services for anyone residing in Somerset County who is facing a difficulty in visiting the library in person. Please visit SCLSNJ.org to see if you qualify for these services.
Cardholder Responsibilities & Use
- Cardholders are responsible for all items checked out to their card and agree to pay all fines/fees.
- Digital copies of cards are supported. Users who register online will automatically receive a digital card. Users who register in-person can use the Digital Card form to make an electronic copy of their card.
- Cardholders understands that posession of any copy of their card is considered permission to use it.
- Cardholders agree to promptly report lost cards. A $3 fee may be charged to replace a card.
- Cardholders must show photo ID and proof of address to register for, make changes to, or renew their card. Card registration and renewal services stop 15 minutes before closing
Restrictions
- Full access cards for minors will not be issued if their parent/legal guardian owes $20 or more in fees.
- New accounts cannot be opened if anyone at the same address if another resident of the housefhold owes $150+ in fees until that balance is reduced.
Card Checklists
Free Library Card
You qualify if you meet any of the following:
- Live in Franklin Township
- Work in Franklin Township
- Own property in Franklin Township
- Own a business in Franklin Township
You will need:
- Valid photo ID*
- Proof of current Franklin Township address or property**
- Affiliate Card: Current paystub from a local business.
- Reciprocal Card: Must be registered and in good standing at home library.
*An unexpired NJ driver’s license/NJ non-driver’s ID/ Somerset County ID is preferred. Any of these will double as proof of identity.
** For a full list other accepted proofs of residency see the full Circulation Policy here.
👧 Full Access For Minors
You qualify if you:
- Meet qualifications for a Free Library Card as above.
- Are under the age of 18.
You will need:
- Parent/guardian present
- Parent/guardian provides ID and proof of address
- Parent/guardian signature required
Youth Access Cards
Available for ages 12–17 with limited borrowing.
You qualify if you:
- Meet qualifications for a Free Library Card as above
- Between 12 and 17 years old
You will need:
- Proof of students status or ID:
- Current academic year school ID
- Current report card
- Driving permit, driver’s license, or state issued non-driver ID