Library card

What do you need to know?

There is a card valid for all public libraries in Barcelona, which is also valid for the rest of the public library network in Catalonia. The card is free, personal and non-transferable, it identifies citizens as users of the public library network in Catalonia and gives them the use of their various services, including:

 

  • Looking up and taking out books, magazines, CDs, videos, DVDs and CD-ROMs.
  • Access to electronic databases, the Internet, Wi-Fi network and use of audiovisual devices. Lending documents from the library itself or from other libraries of the network.
  • eBiblio digital content lending service. Photocopying service.
  • Cultural and reading promotion activities.

 

Obtaining the card is optional and it is a very easy formality to complete.

VERY IMPORTANT:

The card is valid for all public libraries in Catalonia and only expires if it is not used in five years.

The card is 100% free, only duplicates have to be paid for.

It also allows you to make use of all of the libraries’ resources, such as the Wi-Fi network and computers.

The card also offers discounts at establishments promoting cultural activities and services in Barcelona and throughout Catalonia.

Who does it apply to?

It is aimed at anyone who is interested in enjoying the services offered by the public libraries network in Catalonia.

Who can apply?

The application must be submitted in person or online by the applicant.

What requirements must be met?

Having an identity document (DNI, passport, identity number for foreign nationals or driving licence). There are no other specific requirements to be met.

 

Although there are no other specific requirements, in the case of children under 14 years of age, an authorisation must be provided by the parent, parents or legal guardians.

What is the validity of this document?

The card expires if it is not used in five years and you can reapply at any time.

What do you need to do?

You can apply for the card by going to the nearest library (in person), or over the Internet by filling in the form available online.

What steps must you follow?

STEP 1: First obtain an identification number

If you would like to apply for the public libraries card, you must get an identification number beforehand, which, depending on the case, can be acquired via the following:

 

  • Certificate of registration as an EU national
  • Identity card for foreign nationals (TIE)
  • Identity number for foreign nationals (NIE)
  • Driving licence

 

Individuals under 14 years of age must provide their DNI or identity number for foreign nationals (NIE), if they have one, in order to get the card. They must also always have authorisation from their parent or parents or legal guardians. This authorisation enables minors to use all of the services, including Internet access. (The use of the card by individuals under 18 years of age is the responsibility of the parent or parents, or legal guardians, who must exert the necessary control.)

 

STEP 2: Select the channel that you think is the most appropriate to display the steps that you will have to follow

  • Online
  • In person

 

Online:

  • Fill in the application form (only available in Catalan and Spanish) and confirm the details.

 

  • Once the personal details have been filled in and validated, you must choose the library where you would like to collect the card, and send the application.

 

  • After sending the application, the library you have chosen will let you know what day you can go and collect your card on. You will receive a notification informing you when you can go and collect the card.

 

  • Collect the card from the chosen library. You must prove your identity by showing the original of your DNI, identity number for foreign nationals (NIE) or passport.

 

  • If you are under 14 years of age, apart from your identity document, you must submit the document identifying your parent or parents or legal guardian (original and photocopy) and a signed authorisation allowing you to use the Internet.

 

In person:

Go to any public library and fill in the application with your personal details. You will need:

 

  • Applicant's identity document: DNI, identity number for foreign nationals (NIE) or passport.
  • Children under 14 years of age also need to provide:

Document identifying the parent or parents or legal guardian (original and photocopy) and a signed authorisation allowing you to use the Internet.

 

Depending on the chosen library, the card may be provided on the spot, or you will be informed of the day you can collect it; in the latter case, when you collect it you must once again prove your identity by presenting the original DNI, identity number for foreign nationals (NIE) or passport.

If you are under 14 years of age, apart from your identity document, you must submit the document identifying your parent or parents or legal guardian (original and photocopy) and a signed authorisation allowing you to use the Internet.

Who can submit the application?

The application must be submitted in person by the applicant.

How long does it take to process the application?

Depending on the library chosen, it is possible that you will be given the card on the spot. Otherwise, they will let you know when you can go and collect it.

What does the application cost?

The card is completely free.

If you lose your card, or want to request a duplicate, you need to pay the cost of issue, which is €1. If it is stolen, the duplicate is free of charge as long as you have reported the theft.

Want to know more?

Which body is responsible for the formality?

Barcelona Libraries Consortium (Barcelona City Council).

Where can I find more information?

You can use the link to the official Barcelona Libraries Consortium website (available in English, Catalan and Spanish).

Provincial Council of Barcelona public library search map

MésBiblioteques electronic newsletter subscription service

 

Linked procedures

If you would like to apply for the public libraries card, you must get an identification number beforehand, which, depending on the case, can be acquired via the following:

IMPORTANT NOTICE

The procedures tend to change frequently. Therefore, only what is provided by the regulations in force at the time of carrying out the procedure in question is applicable.
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