Getting a Library Card

"Having fun isn't hard when you've got a library card." - Marc Brown

When you receive your library card, it's as if you become a member of a community with nearly unlimited access to information, resources, education, and entertainment! There is no fee to become a member, and getting your library card is easy.

With a library card, you will have access to:

"When I got my library card, that was when my life began." - Rita Mae Brown

Also, patrons who have a library card from any other library within the SEO Consortium may use that card to borrow materials from Bluffton Public Library. A list of consortium members is available at servingeveryohioan.org.

Adults may apply for a Bluffton Public Library card with a) a valid ID that includes the patron's current address or b) a valid ID and proof of current address. A signature at the time of registration indicates you are signing a contract with the library and will be responsible for any materials charged or fees associated with that card, including those for late, damaged, or lost items.

How do I apply for a library card?

From then on, patrons are asked to have their library card with them to check out library materials or to use public computers. 

"The only thing that you absolutely have to know, is the location of the library." - Albert Einstein

Minors under age 18 may apply for a card, but must have a parent/guardian present with them to sign an authorization card for their child. The signing parent/guardian's library account must be in good standing before a minor card will be issued. The parent/guardian is responsible for all materials checked out to a minor's card and all fines/fees accrued until cardholder becomes an adult. The parent/guardian has the option to allow or block access to using the library's public computers or to checking out DVDs.

Borrower's Guide

Loan Period of Specific Library Materials

DVDs: 7 days

($1.00 per item, per day late fee)

New Adult Fiction: 14 days

($0.20 per item, per day late fee)

All other materials: 28 days

($0.20 per item, per day late fee)

Please note: Renewing items may be possible under specific circumstances. Patrons may apply for a renewal by using the online catalog, through the SEO Libraries app, or by talking to a staff member at the front desk or by phone (419-358-5016).

Fines and Fees

The maximum accumulated overdue fee is $10.00 per item. Please note: When items have been in "overdue" status for 45 days, they will be assumed lost and a standard replacement rate will be billed to the cardholder's account. A processing fee may also apply. 

You may sign up at our front desk to receive notices via email or text including courtesy notices to alert you when items are due soon. You may also check due dates and renew items on our online catalog here.

You can also sign up for the free SEO Libraries app by accessing the store on your mobile device. Connect to Bluffton Public Library, input your library card information, and enjoy quick access to your account information and the ability to place holds from your device.