Get a Library Card

Anyone living at a permanent address in the Tri-Cities area of Tennessee can sign up for a library card with us for free. You can also sign up if you’re enrolled at a local college or employed in Washington County.

To get your library card, you must fill out an application and establish your proof of residency by bringing a valid photo ID, such as a driver’s license, to either of our library locations. If the address printed on the ID is not current, please bring proof of your current address. The item of proof must include your name in addition to the address in order to be verified. If you have questions about what is considered acceptable proof of address, please call the Jonesborough Library (423) 753-1800 or the Gray Branch Library (423) 477-1550.

To get a card in person, simply bring the requested documentation listed above and be prepared to take the time to visit our registration kiosk and fill out a brief form. In the event you opt to instead do a paper application, please note that this takes additional time for manual entry of your information; this is compounded for each additional card you are making at one time.

To expediate getting your card, it is suggested that you fill out the application from the comfort of home before coming into the library to complete activation. Activation requires to present your photo ID and relevant proof of address, but is a far faster process. To begin pre-registration please click below:

NOTE: Please select a button above based upon which of our two locations you wish to be your primary/pickup location. If you have no preference please select Jonesborough as it is our main branch location.

You must have a library card to borrow materials, so bring it with you every time you visit or have your barcode number ready when you call. 

Every year, your card must be renewed. This just helps us to make sure your information is up-to-date! You may receive a message saying “your privilege has expired”, but don’t worry! It is very easy to renew your account. Just call either of our library locations, and we will renew your card.

If your card has become worn down, please ask if you can get a replacement while we are renewing your account for the year—Replacement of a card in obvious disrepair is free.

Can’t find your card? Bring in your photo ID, and you can get a replacement card for $2.00.