Library Card Policy

Library Card Signup Policy

All Mason County residents and property owners can apply for a Mason County District Library (MCDL) library card. You must have identification showing a Mason County address, such as your up-to-date Michigan ID or official mail (i.e. utility bill). Your library card is free, and entitles you to use the library and all services in accordance with library policies. Library cards must be renewed from time to time. Children and youth under 18 must have a parent or guardian apply for the library card.

If you are NOT a resident of, or property owner in, Mason County, you must purchase a library card for a fee. In 2026, the fees are $35 per year per person, or $55 per year per household, for a non-resident library card. This card will entitle you to the same library services as Mason County residents. In 2027, the fees change to $55 per year per person and $70 per year per family.

Online Library Card Signup

If you can’t get into one of our branches for a card, our online catalog is always available. Mason County residents can also apply online for an account that gives access to all of MCDL’s virtual services such as Libby ebooks and audiobooks, online magazines, Hoopla, Kanopy streaming media, and more. Go to our online catalog, https://mcd.biblionix.com/catalog/, and choose “Sign Up.” You will not be able to check out materials from the libraries until you apply in-person for a library card. 

Visiting Patrons

Mason County District Library participates in Interlibrary Loans through Michigan eLibrary (MeL). Patrons of participating MeL Michigan libraries can borrow items from MCDL while visiting. You need to show your own library’s card for this service.

New Cardholder Limits

For all new library cardholders, Mason County District Library may limit the number of items you may check out during your first 30 days, or until you have established a good return record for items borrowed.