Library Card Application

In order to obtain a library card, your signature is needed to indicate that you accept responsiblity of materials. At this time, the South Carolina State Library is unable to accept digital signatures. Therefore, it is necessary to type your information on the application form, print the page, sign it, and return it to the library. It is also acceptable to print the page, fill it in by hand, sign, and return the completed form.

Please return completed form to:

South Carolina State Library

P.O. Box 11469

1500 Senate Street

Columbia, SC 29211

Or fax it to: (803) 734-4757

Who is eligible for a State Library card?

• Cards may be issued to state legislators, elected and appointed state officials, eligible state government employees, eligible retired state employees, and individuals employed by the news media. Eligible persons must complete a library card application form. First-time borrowers are limited to a maximum of five items. Library materials checked out on a borrower´s card are the responsibility of that borrower until the items are returned to and discharged by the library. Borrowers assume full financial responsibility for materials.
• Faculty and staff of South Carolina public schools and school districts are considered to be employees of their local school district and are not eligible for a card. School district employees may borrow materials in the State Library's collection via interlibrary loan through their local public library.

What are the borrowing policies of the South Carolina State Library?

• Loan periods: 28 days for books, government documents, and non-booked audiovisual materials; 14 days for periodicals (magazines) and items on reserve; seven days for booked audiovisual materials.
• Renewals: Items can be renewed, provided that no one else has requested the item.
• Reserves or holds: If an item is checked out, a reserve/hold will be placed for the requester.
• Overdue charges: No overdue fines are charged.
• Lost and Damaged Item Fines: Replacement costs for lost and damaged library materials will be billed to the borrower. Charges are assessed according to schedules contained in the State Library´s Library Use Policy.
• Damaged items: An $8 charge per damaged item will be billed to the borrower. The State Library retains ownership of the damaged item. If the item cannot be repaired, the full price of the item will be assessed in order to obtain a replacement copy.