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Library Cards

Member Benefits

As a library member you can:

  • Borrow items from our print and audio collections.
  • Borrow movies and tv shows on DVD or Blu-ray.
  • Download content from our digital collections, including ebooks, digital audiobooks, digital magazines, streaming music, movies, and television.
  • Access our databases from home.
  • Enjoy free access to the New York Times online.
  • Learn a new language with Rosetta Stone, Mango Languages, or Little Pim.
  • Make reservations through our Museum Pass Program.
  • Receive borrowing privileges at select nearby libraries.
  • Participate in our seasonal Reading Programs.

Who is eligible?

A library card is available free of charge to anyone who is able to show proof that they live in, own property, work in, or own a business in Franklin Township.  Resident library cards are valid for three years and must be renewed with valid personal identification and proof of Franklin Township residence.

Free Membership

Minors (17 & under) need permission from a parent/guardian in order to open a full access card.  Parent/guardian card cannot be blocked for fees and the both must be present at the time of registration.

Minors (17 & under) can self-register for a Youth Access Card if they can show proof of identity such as a current year school ID.

Homebound applicants use the link below to download the application. Please print, fill out, and mail the form to register remotely. Your permanent card will be mailed to you.

Free library cards are also available to:

Paid Membership

Non-residents who do not otherwise qualify for a free library card may purchase an annual membership for $50.00 or a half-year membership for $25.00. These fees are reviewed periodically and may be subject to change. . Paid memberships can only be purchased for or by an adult aged 18 and older.

What should I bring?

All library card applicants (this includes renewals and replacement cards) must provide one proof personal identification and one proof of residency.  If you have any questions, please contact us at 732-873-8700, via our contact form, or by visiting the library in person.  

Personal Identification (must contain a photo)

  • Driver’s license or non-driver’s identification card
  • Passport (U.S. or other country)
  • U.S. permanent resident card
  • Somerset County ID

Proof of Residency*

  • Driver’s license or non-driver’s identification card.     
  • Bank statement, utility bill, telephone bill, or other monthly bill issued within the past 30 days.   
  • Most recent property tax bill. 
  • Ownership deed or lease.  Lessees may only be granted privileges for their lease period or a maximum of one year; whichever comes first.  
  • For reciprocal borrowing applicants only — your hometown library card, which must be active and in good standing. 
  • For work-in-town applicants only – a pay stub issued in the past 30 days showing your home address.   

* P.O Box addresses cannot be accepted as proof of residency for any applicant.  

Other forms of identification may be required for non-resident cards. For details please see our full Circulation Policy.

Lost Library Cards

The library provides all new users with a free wallet and keychain copy of their library card. There is a $3.00 charge to replace a lost card. Please report a lost card by calling 732-873-8700, option 2 or by using the contact form available here (select “Lost Library Card” from the dropdown).

Please allow at least 24 hours if a confirmation email is needed. Response time will take longer if it is a weekend or the library is closed.

Circulation Policy

For any questions not answered above please see our full Circulation Policy or contact the library. Details available in the Circulation Policy include:

  • Library Card Eligibility and Registration
  • Youth Access Card
  • Checking Out & Returning Media Items
  • Borrowing Limits and Fees
  • Renewing Your Checkouts
  • Library Courtesy Notices
  • Borrowing Fees for Overdue Items
  • Fees for Lost or Damaged Items
  • Sending Accounts to “Collections”
  • Payments and Refunds
  • Requesting an Item Be Held for You
  • Reciprocal Borrowing
  • Borrower Confidentiality