Get a Library Card

How to Get A Library Card

Getting a Morrison-Talbott Library card is easy, and it opens the door to a world of resources, programs, services and more. 

We offer library cards for all ages at Morrison Talbott Library!

If You Live Within Waterloo City Limits

Waterloo residents are eligible for a library card at no additional cost because the library is supported through city taxes.

To receive your card, simply bring:

• A valid photo ID
• One additional document showing your current Waterloo address 

Examples of address verification include: utility bill, voter registration card, insurance card, lease agreement or official mail

Adults must apply in person.  Parents or legal guardian may obtain cards for children 0-17.

Resident library cards are valid for three years.

If You Own Property or a Business Within Waterloo City Limits

Owners of property or businesses located with city limits are eligible for a library card at no additional cost.

To receive your card, bring:

• A valid photo ID
• The property tax bill for the property located within city limits.
• Lease or tax bill for business located within city limits.

Non-resident property owners, including Waterloo business proprietors, receive library cards valid for one year.

Library Cards for Children

We believe it’s never too early to start a lifelong love of the library!

Ages 0-5

Children ages 0-5 can enroll in our My First Library Card program, which includes:

• A special library card
• Kid-sized tote bag
• Stuffed animal
• Enrollment in our 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten program

Ages 6-17

Children ages 6-17 may also obtain their own library cards with a parent or legal guardian present.  The parent or legal guardian should bring their photo ID and proof of residency.

Not Sure If You Live Within Waterloo City Limits?

Check your property tax bill.  If it lists “City of Waterloo” as a taxing district, you are eligible for a resident card.

You can check your property tax bill online through the Monroe County Property Tax Lookup.

If You Live Outside Waterloo City Limits

You are still welcome to use Morrison-Talbott Library!

Because the library is funded primarily through Waterloo city property taxes, Illinois law requires municipal libraries to charge a non-resident fee for households outside the city limits. 

If you live outside the city limits, you may purchase a non-resident library card.

Non-resident cards are valid for one year, and the annual fee covers everyone in the household at the same address. Please contact the library for the current fee.

Stop In and Get Started!

If you have questions or would like help determining eligibility, our staff will be happy to assist you.  Give us a call at 618-939-6232 or email mtl@waterloolibrary.org

We look forward to welcoming you to Morrison-Talbott Library!