Traveling This Memorial Day? A Library Card Could Be Your Best Entertainment Hack Yet

This Memorial Day weekend, A historic number of individuals are anticipated to embark on travel. And if you happen to be among those millions of people, you might be seeking some forms of entertainment during a lengthy drive or flight. Rather than paying for subscriptions like Netflix or Audible, think about obtaining a library card instead.

There has been a renewed fascination with libraries, and multiple factors contribute to this trend. As the cost of living continues to rise, these institutions serve as underappreciated sources for budget-friendly amusement. Additionally, amidst the era of streaming platforms, libraries provide a more reliable and steady supply of movies and television shows compared to subscription-based services. Netflix and Prime Video , due to their constantly changing libraries.

Have you noticed some of the offerings from Amazon’s Kindle service? It’s no wonder physical books are gaining appeal.

As highlighted in a recent Google Trends newsletter, searches about library cards, particularly regarding their acquisition, reached an all-time high in 2025. No matter what motivates you, I’m ready to assist you with this procedure.

“But esteemed artist,” I can imagine you objecting, “aren’t you all about phones and streaming services — Those stylish, electric symbols of contemporary living? Why opt for library cards? What if I prefer not to carry physical books during trips?" Stay tuned — you may be astonished by the multitude of modern entertainment choices a library card can unlock, along with access to numerous classic printed books.

To learn more, find out how you can gain access to over 30,000 movies and television series for free using your library card along with checking out a selection of the top Memorial Day deals uncovered by Top Artist .

What steps should I follow to obtain a library card?

It likely won’t surprise you that this procedure remains quite straightforward since obtaining a library card continues to work just like before—by visiting your neighborhood library branch and requesting one from the reception desk.

The friendly librarians will probably require you to show identification along with evidence of where you live. Since libraries are supported by tax funds, they must ensure that those utilizing their resources contribute through local taxes. A legitimate driver’s license displaying your present address ought to suffice; however, if your address information is outdated (and let me just say this without pointing fingers—ahem), then additional documentation such as recent mail bearing your name and address would be necessary.

Each library system varies, so it’s best to verify their specific criteria by visiting their website or giving them a call. Once you do that, you ought to be good to go. Take some time to explore the wide array of books accessible to you.

Might I recommend I'm Beginning to Get Concerned About This ominous black box By Jason Pargin? It covers quite a few insights into those complex symbols of contemporary life we discussed before. If you're looking for something more vibrant and fitting for the holiday season this Memorial Day weekend, I strongly suggest not missing out on it. The complete writings of Emily Henry are sufficient. .

The American Library Association stands as the most senior professional group dedicated to libraries and promotes their growth and utilization globally. In an emailed conversation with Top artistvia, ALA President Cindy Hohl outlined the organization’s stance on the role of libraries in contemporary times.

"A library card is one of the most powerful tools anyone can have which offers access to many resources beyond books," Hohl wrote. "Libraries are a go-to place for people who need access to technology whether it's computers, printers or Wi-Fi hotspots, to name a few. A library's collection will differ in each community as it adapts to meet its needs, one might find access to unique or nontraditional items for checkout such as camera equipment, power tools and cookware. Libraries continue to play a critical role in information access, learning and culture."

Is it possible to get a library card through an online registration process?

Sure, you definitely can, but there might be a catch.

These days, many library systems allow you to set up an account and apply for a library card through their website. Typically, this grants you an immediate account number which enables access to various digital resources and sometimes allows borrowing books physically as well. Nonetheless, such libraries typically require verification of your identification and residence status; hence, this temporary membership may necessitate visiting one of their branches later on to finalize everything and obtain a tangible card. On another note, using just the virtual card often comes with restricted capabilities when contrasted against what’s possible with a traditional, physical card.

Ultimately, online library card sign-ups are a nice convenience for folks with a lot going on but they aren't a full substitute for a physical card. Depending on where you live, the bigger library systems in your state might let all state residents sign up for digital cards, without any requirement that you show up in person. As a New York state resident, I'm able to sign up for cards from the Brooklyn, Manhattan and Queens libraries, even though I don't live anywhere near New York City.

May I borrow ebooks and audiobooks?

These are the contemporary amenities I assured you about. Nowadays, numerous platforms enable you to access ebooks or digital audiobooks simply by providing your library card details. Previously, I have extensively discussed my preferred options among these services in my writings. Libby , which is a user-friendly and extremely budget-friendly substitute for Kindle , Apple Books and Audible You could also explore Hoopla, which provides ebooks, audiobooks, music, and videos.

Are there streaming benefits with library cards?

Who needs Netflix with its progressively outlandish What is the monthly cost? Besides access to all kinds of books, Hoopla will also enable you to stream movies, TV shows, and even music for free provided you possess a library card. You may also want to take this into account. Kanopy Another complimentary library card service, this one concentrating more on independent, classic, and documentary films.

Based on data supplied to Top Artist from the ALA, 95% of U.S. libraries now provide patrons with access to e-books and audio books, whereas 57.5% grant access to various forms of streaming content.

Initially released on May 23, 2025 at 1:15 PM Pacific Time.