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FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

Are library cards free?

Library cards issued by SHARE public libraries are free of charge to Wisconsin residents (excluding residents of Milwaukee County) and grant the holder access to all public libraries in the counties of Rock, Kenosha, Racine and Walworth.

How do I get a library card?

Option 1: Get a temporary online card here. A library will reach out to you about a permanent card.

Option 2: Bring an ID and proof of current residence (a mailed bill or other official document) to your library of choice. You will be asked to fill out a short form (possibly available online). Then you’ll be issued a card.

Do library cards expire?

Library cards are valid for two years. Call or stop by your library to renew your card.

If a library card is not renewed within three years of expiring, the associated patron record is purged. If this happens, you may re-apply for a library card by completing the registration process again.

Are there different types of library cards?

Some libraries offer a variety of cards with different privileges or restrictions such as Youth Cards, Teacher Cards, Institution Cards, Adult Cards, etc. Ask your favorite library about what types of cards they offer and how they can help accommodate your needs.

Where is my library card accepted?

Use your library card at any public library in the counties of Rock, Kenosha, Racine, or Walworth… that’s 29 locations. The public libraries in these counties are members of the SHARE Consortium. As part of this partnership, materials owned by any of these public libraries may be borrowed by and returned to any other SHARE Consortium Public Library (or their dropbox). See our About Us page for locations.

What can I use my library card for?

Books, audiobooks, movies, comic books, magazines, newspapers, plant seeds, instruments, bike locks, cake pans, games, puzzles, toys. Plus, online classes, homework help, live virtual tutoring, video arts and crafts tutorials, business and technology tutorials, streaming movies, streaming music, ebooks, digital audiobooks, data bases, and more.

I’ve moved, now what?

In-State, Still in SHARE’s Area: Update your contact information and address by logging in to your SHARE account and making the appropriate edits under the “Personal Information” tab or call your library.

In-State, Out of SHARE’s Area: You may keep your card and update your contact information, or call the issuing library to close your account. Contact your new library to get a local card.

Out-of-State: Please contact the library which issued your card and request that it be canceled.