Get a Library Card

Who is eligible for a library card from Cass District Library?

Persons who reside in Cass District Library’s legal service area may apply for a library card at no charge. The legal service area includes the following Cass County townships: Calvin, Howard, Jefferson, LaGrange, Mason, Milton, Newberg, Ontwa, Penn, Porter, Pokagon and Volinia. Cass District Library has reciprocal borrowing agreements with Wood Memorial-Marcellus Township Library, Dowagiac District Library and Van Buren District Library. If you have a valid library card from either of these libraries, you are eligible to borrow books from Cass District Library and its branches at no charge. All students who attend school in Cass County are eligible for an Education Card.

How can I apply for a library card?

To register for a card, you must provide the library with the following information: name, address, business address (if any), telephone number (preferably more than one), and birth date. Consent from a parent or legal guardian will be required for a minor. Registration forms may be sent home with minors for adult signature. One of the following documents will be accepted as proof of residency: driver’s license, tax receipt, voter registration card, Michigan identification card, property deed, utility bill, bank checks with imprint of name and address or mortgage/lease agreement. Library cards are valid for three years; out-of-district cards are valid for one year. Proof of current residency will be required at the time of renewal. A library card that has expired or has not been claimed for 6 months shall be withdrawn. Library cards will not be issued or renewed for customers or institutions with outstanding fines, fees or bills.

What if I am not eligible, but still would like a card?

Persons who are not eligible (i.e., those who live outside of the library’s legal service area) may register for a library card by paying an annual $25.00 registration fee. This “non-resident” card will expire one year from the date of activation and may be renewed for another year at a cost of $25.00. Out-of-state residents may register by paying an annual registration fee of $40.00. The same activation and expiration stipulations apply.