How to apply
- View our Library District boundary map or check your McHenry County or Lake County tax bill to make sure you are in the Library District. (See Non-resident library card information below, which may be applicable if you are not in our Library District.)
- Come in person to fill out an application at the Service Center or apply online to begin the process. To receive your card you must present your driver’s license with your current name and address and one piece of mail with your current name and address (such as voter ID, mortgage or lease agreement, utility bills, pay stub, bank statement, or car registration) OR two pieces of mail with your current name and address and a photo ID (examples include a driver’s license, state ID, school ID). The Library respects your privacy. We need to view and record some personal information to set up your account, but we do not share it with other government agencies.
- Parents or legal guardians must apply for any minors under 18 either in person or online. A parent or legal guardian must present their identification as outlined above and the child must be present to receive their card. There is no age restriction on Library cards.
Questions? Contact us online or call us during regular library hours at 847-639-4210, press 0.
Now that you have a card, set up your account & get a basic overview of the online catalog
Replacement library cards
You may replace your card at our Service Center. Please alert staff if you use downloading/streaming services such as Libby, Boundless, and/or hoopla. Adults need to bring in a valid ID. Children may supply staff with pertinent information. The replacement fee is $3, however, there is no charge for seniors, stolen cards, name changes, transferring from a juvenile to adult card, or for old beige cards.
Non-resident library card
If you live outside of the CAPL District and do not live within another area Library District, you may be eligible to purchase a library card at CAPL. The cost of the card is based on your tax bill and is the same formula used for in-district cardholders (meaning you will not be paying more than you would if you lived in our District). Please call us (847-639-4210, press 0) or visit the Service Center to determine your eligibility and cost. Please have your current tax bill handy. If you are determined to be eligible, these are your payment options.
The non-resident fee shall be waived in the following circumstances:
- On library cards issued to minors age 17 and under who live in an unserved area (Cards for Kids Act). The parent/legal guardian must apply for the minor’s library card in person and the child must be present, and present their identification as outlined above under the How to Apply section.
- Veterans with a service-connected disability of at least 70% who are exempt from paying property taxes on their primary residence, or who rent in an unincorporated area. Documentation of at least 70% disability from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs must be presented.
- The unmarried surviving spouse of a veteran who qualified for this exemption prior to death. Documentation that indicates the residence is exempt from paying property taxes must be presented.
- The unmarried surviving spouse of a service member killed in the line of duty. Documentation that indicates the residence is exempt from paying property taxes must be presented.
I live in Cambria. Why do I have to go to the Algonquin Library to get a library card?
While Cambria is within the borders of the Village of Cary, the Library district border is slightly different. Prior to the development of Cambria, the Algonquin Public Library District annexed that land into their district. You must go to the Algonquin Public Library to register for a card. However, once you have your card you are welcome to use the Cary Area Library for most collections and some services.