Last Updated on April 6, 2024
Many people don’t know this, but Florida library cards are good for so much more than just checking out books. There are many things that your library card can offer you.
We are showcasing some of the coolest things you can do with your library card in different public libraries around the state.
Keep reading to learn more about library cards, how to obtain one, and unique things you can do with yours.
Table of Contents
- How does a library card help you?
- What do I need to get a library card in Florida?
- Northwest Florida Libraries
- North Central Florida Libraries
- Northeast Florida Libraries
- Central West Florida Libraries
- Central Florida Libraries
- Central East Florida Libraries
- Southwest Florida Libraries
- Southeast Florida Libraries
- Notary Public
How does a library card help you?
A library card is excellent to have for so many different reasons. You can check out physical materials like books, Blu-rays, DVDs, and CDs.
You can also often use your library account to access digital materials and online resources like eBooks, digital audiobooks, and online databases.
What do I need to get a library card in Florida?
To get a library card in Florida, you can visit one of the libraries in your county. However, there a few city libraries that operate as their own entity.
The Circulation Desk
Stop by the circulation desk for a library card application.
If you are over 18 years old, you must show photo identification and proof of residency. Some examples of each are listed below.
Photo Identification
- Valid Florida driver’s license
- Valid Florida ID card
Proof of Residency
- Utility bill
- Lease or rental agreement
- Bank statement
Please check with your local library to verify what is needed to apply for a library card. Also, remember that not all libraries are public and give you access to all libraries within your county.
We have included unique items to check out, including neat tech spaces, and museum admissions.
Northwest Florida Libraries
Check out the Jazz Room – Pensacola Library
The Pensacola Library is part of West Florida Public Libraries. A unique thing to do here is to visit the Jazz Room.
The Jazz Room has a curated collection of jazz’s history, culture, and performance.
The room includes an estimated 1500 books, CDs, and movies relating to jazz. There is also a listening station where patrons can listen to audio samples from the room’s collection.
Learn more about the Jazz Room.
Pensacola Library Jazz Room Address: 239 N Spring St, Pensacola, FL 32502
Looking for fun things to do in the Pensacola area? Check out: Experience Authentic Pensacola (& Pensacola Beach).
If you’re a fan of jazz, don’t miss A Guide to Jazz Festivals in Florida (2024).
North Central Florida Libraries
Borrow from the Library of Things – LeRoy Collins Leon County Main Library
The LeRoy Collins Leon County Main Library of Leon County Public Library offers a collection that is atypical of what you would expect to be able to borrow from a library.
The Library of Things is a collection of tools, tech, and sports gear you can reserve with your library card.
Some of the things you can check out include a Go Pro, a karaoke system, and inflatable kayaks.
Learn more about the Library of Things.
LeRoy Collins Leon County Main Library Address: 200 W Park Ave, Tallahassee, FL 32301
Looking for fun things to do in the Tallahassee area? Check out: Ten Authentic Things to Do in Tallahassee, the “Other Florida”
Northeast Florida Libraries
Enroll in Library U – Jacksonville Public Library
Jacksonville Public Library has assembled a collection of classes and events for library cardholders comparable to that of colleges and universities called Library U.
The program includes workshops to improve your day-to-day life, writer’s labs to help authors, resources for small business owners, and more!
Learn more about Library U.
Jacksonville Public Library Address: 303 N. Laura St. Jacksonville, FL 32202
Looking for fun things to do in the Jacksonville area? Check out: Our Top 7 Authentic Things to Do in Jacksonville.
Central West Florida Libraries
Learn about Florida History – Hernando County Public Library
Hernando County Public Library gives its library cardholders access to Florida Memory. Florida Memory is a website with archives of Florida history.
Historical records, maps, photographs, and more can be perused with Florida Memory.
The website also has articles, exhibits, and research tools – perfect for anyone looking to learn more about Florida history.
Learn more about Florida Memory.
Hernando County Public Library Address: 238 Howell Ave, Brooksville, FL 34601
Looking for fun things to do in Hernando County? Check out: Exploring Florida’s Adventure Coast, Brooksville – Weeki Wachee.
Central Florida Libraries
Be a Content Creator at the Melrose Center – Orlando Public Library
The Melrose Center is located on the second floor of the Orlando Public Library (in the heart of downtown Orlando), part of the Orange County Library System.
With your library card, you can access many cool features, like a photo studio, a video studio, 3D printers, sound booths, and editing bays.
Before getting started, you must complete a general orientation about reserving and utilizing these spaces, which you can do online.
Learn more about the Melrose Center.
Orlando Public Library Melrose Center Address: 101 E Central Blvd, Orlando, FL 32801
Looking for fun things to do in the Orlando area? Check out: 7 Ways to Experience Orlando Like a Local.
Central East Florida Libraries
Learn Basic Computer Skills – Volusia County Public Library
Volusia County Public Library branches offer VCLP eLab, a collection of services that include basic computer skills training, library database and digital services assistance, and more.
Learn more about VCLP eLab.
Volusia County Public Library Address: 105 Jackie Robinson Parkway, Daytona Beach, FL 32114
Looking for fun things to do in Volusia County? Check out: Race to Adventure in Daytona Beach (Volusia County).
Southwest Florida Libraries
Check out the Naples Genealogy Room – Naples Regional Library
The Naples Regional Library is part of the Collier County Public Library. The Naples Genealogy Room is at this location.
The room houses a collection of non-circulating genealogy books and research tools.
Volunteers from the Genealogical Society of Collier County have a schedule of availability to assist patrons with their research.
Learn more about the Naples Genealogy Room.
Naples Regional Library Address: 650 Central Ave #6027, Naples, FL 34102
Looking for fun things to do in Southwest Florida? Check out: A Road Trip to Southwest Florida’s Best Shell Destinations.
Southeast Florida Libraries
Visit a Museum – Miami-Dade Public Library System
The Miami-Dade Public Library System has a Museum Pass Program for its cardholders, giving them access to various local museums and parks.
Learn about art and history, or even take a trip to the zoo with this fantastic program accessible with your library card.
Online you can see what the availability is for various locations. Learn more about the Museum Pass Program.
Looking for fun things to do in Southeast Florida? Check out: 8 Adventures in Awesome, Authentic Miami.
Notary Public
Many Florida libraries also have a Notary Public available if you need that service. Some libraries offer it for free or for a minimal fee.
If you enjoyed this article about cool things to do with your Florida library card and are looking for a few other recommendations, check out these suggestions:
- A Road Trip to Florida’s Best Independent Bookstores in 2024
- Eight Authentic Florida Books for Your Summer Reading
- A Land Remembered, a Beloved Florida Book
- Enjoy These 4 Classic Authentic Florida Books
- Meet Author and Floridania Fest Founder Ken Breslauer
- Spotlight on Carl Hiaasen: An Authentic Florida Author
- The Cuban Sandwich Book is Now Available
- New Book Alert: “The Thing About Florida” by Tyler Gillespie