The Brooklyn Public Library System serves all Brooklyn residents with free library cards, digital resources, and community programs

The Brooklyn Public Library (BPL) is an independent library system that covers all of Brooklyn. It is not part of the New York Public Library system that serves Manhattan and the Bronx. With a Brooklyn Public Library card, you can borrow books, audiobooks, and DVDs from any of the system's branches, use computers and Wi-Fi, and access digital collections online from home.

The system operates 60 branch libraries across Brooklyn's neighborhoods. Each branch holds different collections and offers different programs, though all cardholders can request materials from any branch and have them delivered to their home branch for pickup. You do not need to live in Brooklyn to get a card — the system issues cards to anyone, though Brooklyn residents get them at no cost.

Beyond physical materials, BPL offers streaming services, e-books, audiobooks, databases, and job training resources through its website. Many of these digital resources work on your phone or tablet and require only your library card number and PIN to access.

Key Takeaways

  • Brooklyn Public Library cards are free for Brooklyn residents and cost $50 per year for non-residents, and you can get one in person at any branch or online.
  • The system includes 60 branches across Brooklyn, and you can request materials from any branch to be held at your nearest location.
  • Digital resources including e-books, audiobooks, streaming movies, and job training databases are available to cardholders 24/7 through the BPL website.
  • Many branches offer free programs for children, teens, and adults, including homework help, English conversation groups, and computer classes.
  • You can use any BPL computer station and Wi-Fi for free with your library card, and some branches offer printing and scanning services.

Getting a Brooklyn Public Library Card

To get a free Brooklyn Public Library card, you need proof of your current address in Brooklyn and a photo ID. Acceptable address proof includes a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days. You can bring these documents to any BPL branch during open hours and receive your card on the spot.

If you cannot visit a branch in person, you can register for a digital card online through the BPL website. The digital card works when ready for accessing e-books, audiobooks, and streaming services. To use it at a physical branch or to borrow physical materials, you will need to visit in person within 30 days to verify your address and receive your physical card.

Non-residents can purchase a card for $50 per year. The same address and ID requirements explore, though your address can be outside Brooklyn. Some non-residents choose to get a card if they work in Brooklyn or visit frequently.

Finding Books and Materials at Your Branch

You can search the BPL catalog online at the library's website by title, author, or subject. The search results show which branches have the item in stock and whether it is currently available or on hold. If your nearest branch does not have the book, you can request it from another branch at no cost, and it will be held for you for seven days once it arrives.

Physical materials have different loan periods: books are typically three weeks, DVDs are one week, and audiobooks are three weeks. You can renew most items online or by phone if no one else has placed a hold on them. Overdue fines are $0.25 per day for most items, with a maximum fine of $5 per item.

If you prefer not to visit a branch, BPL offers mail delivery of materials to your home address. You can request this service when you place a hold on an item. Return materials by mail using a prepaid envelope, or drop them off at any branch.

Digital Resources You Can Access From Home

BPL cardholders can borrow e-books and audiobooks through OverDrive and Libby, apps that work on phones, tablets, and computers. These collections include recent releases and backlist titles. Loans are typically three weeks, and you can place holds on titles that are checked out.

The system also offers streaming access to movies and TV shows through Kanopy, a service that includes independent films, documentaries, and classic cinema. Hoopla is another streaming option that includes movies, music, and audiobooks with no waiting list — you can borrow when ready.

For job seekers, BPL provides free access to LinkedIn Learning, which offers courses in professional skills, software, and career development. The library also offers access to databases for resume writing, job searching, and interview preparation. These resources are available through the BPL website under "Digital Collections."

Computer Access and Wi-Fi at Brooklyn Public Library Branches

All BPL branches offer free public computers with internet access. You can use a computer for up to two hours per day with your library card. Computers are available on a first-come, first-served basis, though some branches allow you to reserve a time slot in advance by calling the branch directly.

Wi-Fi is available at all branches and does not require a library card — you can connect to the network and use it for free. The network name is "BPL_Public" and requires no password. Wi-Fi is available during all branch hours, including after-hours at some locations.

Many branches offer printing, scanning, and copying services for a small fee. Printing typically costs $0.15 to $0.25 per page depending on whether it is black and white or color. Ask at the front desk of your branch about these services and their current costs.

Programs and Classes Offered at Brooklyn Public Library Branches

BPL branches offer free programs for children, including story time for babies and toddlers, after-school homework help, and summer reading clubs. Teen programs include coding workshops, creative writing groups, and college preparation sessions. Adult programs vary by branch but often include English conversation groups, computer classes, financial literacy workshops, and citizenship preparation classes.

Many branches host author talks, book clubs, and community events. Some branches offer specialized programs like ESL (English as a Second Language) classes, GED preparation, and technology training for seniors. Check your branch's calendar on the BPL website or call the branch directly to learn what programs are currently running.

Most programs are free, though some specialized workshops may have a small fee or require registration in advance. Registration details are listed on the BPL website or available by calling your branch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my Brooklyn Public Library card at other library systems?

No. The Brooklyn Public Library is independent and does not have reciprocal borrowing agreements with the New York Public Library (Manhattan and the Bronx) or the Queens Public Library. However, you can get a card from each system separately if you live or work in those areas.

What happens if I lose my library card?

Visit any BPL branch with your ID and proof of address to report the card lost and receive a replacement. There is no fee for a replacement card. If you are concerned about unauthorized use, tell the staff when ready so they can flag your account.

Can I place a hold on a book that is currently checked out?

Yes. You can place a hold online through the BPL catalog or ask staff at your branch. You will be notified by email or phone when the item arrives at your chosen branch. Holds are free and are held for seven days before being returned to the shelf.

Do I need to renew my library card?

Brooklyn resident cards do not expire and do not need to be renewed. Non-resident cards expire one year from the purchase date and must be renewed for another $50 fee.

Is there a limit to how many items I can borrow at once?

No. There is no limit on the number of items you can check out at one time. However, you are responsible for tracking due dates and returning items on time to avoid overdue fines.