Get a New Card
To receive a FREE library card, visit the Library’s Information Services Desk on the main level during open hours, fill out a form and present personal identification and verification of your current address.
Eligibility
The following are eligible for free Ocean State Library (OSL) library cards:
Rhode Island Residents with proper name and photo ID
Proof of ID/residency includes: current Rhode Island driver’s license, or photo learner’s permit, or current Rhode Island state ID. Other forms of photo ID may be paired with varied forms of residency, such as: personal/payroll check, utility bill, lease, report card or personal mail, etc., any item showing address and matching name on photo ID.
Children 14-17 years of age
Children 14-17 must provide proof of home address, or may have a parent or guardian signature on registration form (additional forms required if child will be borrowing DVDs or using Internet). Parent/guardian should be present at time of library card application.
Children under 14 years of age
Children under 14 must have a parent or guardian signature on registration form (additional forms required if child will be borrowing DVDs or using Internet). Parent/guardian should be present at time of library card application.
FULL TIME Rhode Island School/College students with ID
For non-residents , acceptable ID includes recent student ID, course schedule, bill, plus proof of address ID.
Out-of-state residents who own property in Rhode Island with ID
Acceptable ID includes recent tax bill, recent utility bill, plus proof of address ID.
Out-of-state residents who do NOT own property in Rhode Island
Purchase an OSL card for $245 annual fee, with proof of address ID. This allows full privileges including placing holds and borrowing from other R.I. libraries.
Out-of-state residents who WORK in Rhode Island
Obtain a free “Local Use Only” card for Providence Public Library with proof of employment in Rhode Island. This allows for placing holds on and borrowing materials from Providence Public Library ONLY. NOTE: “Local Use Only” cards do not allow borrowing privileges for the Ocean State Libraries’ digital eZone site. Non-residents may have only one local use card in the state.
Replacement fee for a lost Ocean State Libraries card is $1.
Revised December 2025