You can learn, borrow, create, explore and so much more with your library card. Registering is free and easy.
Apply online
Dakota County residents can
register for a library card online. You will have immediate access to our electronic collections free of charge.
Your account will be ready within 60 minutes and allow access to all digital material. A physical library card will be mailed to your address.
Register for a library card online
Apply in person
You can also visit any
Dakota County Library location to get a library card. You will need to provide a photo ID and proof of your current address. There is no fee charged in obtaining your library card.
Examples of photo ID
- Driver's license or state-issued ID
- Passport
- Armed services ID
- School ID
- Immigration cards
Examples of proof of current address
- Driver's license or state-issued ID
- Postmarked mail
- Bill
- Lease
All items can be shown on electronic devices.
Personal Identification Numbers (PIN)
Your PIN can be reset using Forgot my PIN. You will need your library card number and must have an email address on file.
Library cards for children
There are no age restrictions to get a library card. A parent or legal guardian will need to provide a valid photo ID and proof of current address. A pre-signed library card application form is acceptable during a class visit
A temporary library account can be opened by providing a valid address and phone number without a parent or legal guardian present. A temporary account is limited to two borrowed items and is valid for 60 days.
Dakota County Library will send notifications to parents or legal guardians when their child opens an account. Parents or legal guardians are responsible for their child's borrowed materials and for any associate fees, until a child turns 18.
The library serves all ages and interests and library cards provide access to everything the library has to offer. We encourage parents and caregivers to help children select reading and viewing material of interest to your family.
Using your Dakota County card at other libraries
Your Dakota County library card can be registered with most Minnesota public libraries. You will need to visit that library in person with your library card and a photo ID with your current address.
Getting a library card if you live outside of Dakota County
To get access to Dakota County Library resources just register your local card with us. First, visit your local community library to get a library card. Then, bring your library card and a photo ID with your current address to any Dakota County Library location. To find out which county you live in, ask library staff.
Family members can pick up reserved items
Family members may pick up items reserved under your library card. In order to pick up the materials, the library card that the items were reserved under must be presented. A Request to Limit Reserved Materials form needs to be filled out if you do not want family members to pick up materials requested under your library card.
Replacing library cards
If you lose or damage your library card, we can replace them at any Dakota County Library location.