Get a Library Card

 To sign up for a library card, fill out the Self-Registration form on our catalog. Then bring in your photo ID and proof of your current, local address to any Valnet branch to pick up your physical card. 

You need the following documentation:

1. Current Photo Identification
2. Proof of your current local address in one of the following ways:
      a. On your ID
      b. A piece of mail that has gone through the mail system. 
      c. A package with your name and address. 

See the FAQ below for more information about what we accept as proof. 

You can fill out the application in person at the library or you can apply online here and bring in your Photo ID and Address Verification when you come to pick up your physical card. 

If you have any questions, please call us at 208-882-3925. 

How much does it cost to get a library card?

$0.00

What counts as proof of address?

Photo ID with your current local address

Any item that has been through the mail or a shipping system with your name and address such as:

• A postcard
• A package
• A bill

A copy of your current lease with your name and address

If you can show on your smart device a copy of your on-campus housing assignment or a utility bill that will also be accepted.

How old do I have to be to get a card?

Under the age of 18 a parent or legal guardian is required to get a library card and they must come in with you with photo ID and proof of local address. We prefer but do not require them to have a card. 

• Parents can get cards for their children as long as the children are present. The minimum age for a child to get a card is "old enough to come to the library with their parent."

What happens if I lose my library card?

Call your branch and tell us you have lost your card. We will check to make sure it isn't in our "lost cards" box and then mark your account as "lost card." 
Then next time you come in, bring your photo ID and we can issue you a replacement card for $1.

What information about me does the library save?

• First name, last name, middle name (if given)
• Birthday and month, year only if under 18
• First and last name of guarantor for minors
• Mailing address (& local address if different)
• Phone number & email if volunteered 

What if I want less information saved about me?

You can get a Computer Access Only card. It still allows you use of the computers and digital resources, but you cannot check out physical items. While we still need to see your ID and proof of address we save less information:

• First and last name
• Birth month

If you decide to upgrade from a Computer Access Card to a full card, we'll need to see your proof of address and photo ID again.

What will my library card look like?

You can pick one of these card options when you come in to get your physical card:

What can my library card do for me?

• Thousands of items available through our consortium Valnet
• Online digital resources 
• Use of in building computers
• Access to our Curiousity Collection

Does my library card expire?

Library cards expire every 2 years. Just call your branch or come in when your card is close to expiring (you'll get an e-mail if you have an e-mail on file.) 

We expire cards for a few reasons:

• To make sure your contact information is up to date
• To help us clear out old cards. With the university, we have a population that changes frequently. Expriring cards after 2 years means we can delete cards after they've been expired and we don't build up large numbers of inactive users. 

Do I need my library card every time I visit the library?

Please bring your library card every time you visit or add it to a keychain app like Stocard. See our tutorial below for information on how to add your card: