Library
The King County Library System provides library services for residents and property owners throughout King County, offering access to books, digital collections, computers, educational resources, community programs, and library facilities. This article explains how the library system works, how to get a library card, where to find locations, how to access online resources, and how to contact the library for account or service assistance.
King County Library System Overview
The King County Library System (KCLS) provides access to physical and digital materials, learning resources, research tools, and public library services. The system serves communities throughout King County and offers both in-person and online options for residents who want to borrow materials, use technology, attend programs, or access educational content.
Library services are available through local library locations and online systems. Users can search library materials, manage accounts, place holds, access digital collections, and find upcoming programs through KCLS online services. The library also provides assistance through customer service channels for questions about accounts, holds, resources, and general library use.
Library Locations and Branch Services
Residents can locate nearby branches through the KCLS library locations directory. The location search allows users to look for libraries by library name, address, or ZIP code. Location pages provide information about individual libraries and available services.
Library branches provide access to physical collections, public computers, printing services, Wi-Fi, meeting and study spaces, and other community resources. Visitors can use public computers by making a reservation or visiting a library location with available computer access.
Free wireless internet access is available at KCLS libraries. Visitors can connect their devices by selecting the “KCLS Open Wi-Fi” network from their device settings. Public Wi-Fi networks are not considered secure networks, so users should take appropriate precautions when accessing personal information online.
Getting a Library Card
A KCLS library card provides access to physical materials and online resources. Card eligibility depends on where a person lives, owns property, or whether their local library system has a reciprocal borrowing agreement with KCLS.
The Library Cards page explains available card options, including All-Access Library Cards and Digital Library Cards.
All-Access Library Card
An All-Access Library Card allows users to borrow physical library materials and access digital resources. It is available to King County residents and property owners and Seattle residents. Residents of Yarrow Point and Hunts Point cannot receive an All-Access card through KCLS.
To apply for an All-Access Library Card, users can apply online and receive the card by mail or apply in person at a library branch. When applying in person, applicants should bring:
Proof of address
Photo identification showing date of birth
Property owners may need additional proof of property ownership depending on their situation.
Digital Library Card
A Digital Library Card provides immediate online access to KCLS digital resources. Applicants can use the digital card for eBooks, magazines, films, music, online classes, tutorials, language learning resources, test preparation, certifications, and research databases.
After applying online, users receive their account number and PIN by email. A verification number is later sent by regular mail, and users must confirm their account within 60 days by entering the verification number on the account confirmation page.
Digital Library Cards are available to eligible King County residents and property owners. Seattle residents can apply for an All-Access Library Card instead. Residents of Yarrow Point and Hunts Point are not eligible for Digital Library Cards.
Library Card Requirements
The documents needed for a library card depend on the applicant’s eligibility category. Most applicants applying for full library access need identification and address verification.
Adults applying for an All-Access Library Card should provide:
Photo ID showing date of birth
Proof of current residential address
Accepted photo identification may include a driver’s license, passport, Washington ID, U.S. Military ID, or Matricula Consular. Address verification may include documents such as a utility bill, bank statement, lease, voter registration, or similar records.
Minors under age 18 do not need their own photo ID. A parent or guardian may provide proof of address. If a minor applies without a parent or guardian, KCLS may mail a verification postcard.
Managing Your Library Account
Library accounts allow users to access online services, place holds, manage borrowed materials, and use digital resources. Users generally sign in with their library card number and PIN or password.
If a PIN has not been created, the default PIN is the last four digits of the phone number in the library account. Users can reset a PIN online using their library card number or ask library staff for assistance.
Address changes must be handled by calling or visiting a library. Addresses cannot be updated online.
Lost Cards and Account Issues
Library users are responsible for materials checked out on their cards. If a card is lost or stolen, users should contact KCLS as soon as possible. To reactivate an account, users may need to bring photo ID showing date of birth to a library.
Accounts with more than $75 in lost or damaged item fees cannot check out physical items until the balance is reduced to $75 or less.
Books, eBooks, and Audiobooks
KCLS provides access to a wide range of reading materials, including printed books, eBooks, magazines, and audiobooks. Users can browse available collections through the library website and request materials when supported by library services.
The Books collection page includes browsing options, staff recommendations, new materials, purchase requests, and interlibrary loan information.
For digital reading, the eBooks collection provides access to digital resources through services such as Libby and OverDrive. Users can borrow eBooks, audiobooks, and magazines on computers, mobile devices, or eReaders.
Audiobook users can access downloadable titles through Libby and OverDrive, as well as audiobook collections available through KCLS services. These resources allow users to listen on supported devices without visiting a library branch.
Digital Library Resources
KCLS library cards provide access to online resources beyond books. Digital services include educational tools, entertainment options, and research databases.
Available digital resources include:
Libby for eBooks, magazines, and downloadable audiobooks
Hoopla for movies, TV, music, and comics
The New York Times online access
Kanopy streaming films
Brainfuse tutoring and learning assistance
Digital services can be accessed from home using a valid library account. Users should check account status and login information if they experience problems accessing online materials.
Library Visits and Public Facilities
The Plan Your Visit page provides information about visiting KCLS libraries and using available services. Visitors can return materials, use computers, connect to Wi-Fi, reserve rooms, and pick up holds.
Returning Library Materials
Materials can be returned to any KCLS library. Users may return items through book drops, Self-Check-in stations, or by giving materials directly to library staff.
Large items such as kits should be returned to staff rather than placed in standard return locations. Returned items may take a day or two to process before they appear as returned in an account.
Locker Pickup Service
Some KCLS locations provide 24/7 locker pickup for holds. Users select a locker location when placing a hold through the online catalog.
When a hold is ready, users receive notification and have three days to pick up the item. To open the locker, users enter their library card number and PIN or password.
Library Programs and Events
KCLS offers programs and events for different age groups and interests. Programs include story times, technology assistance, workshops, author events, language learning activities, and community programs.
Users can browse upcoming programs through the KCLS events calendar. The calendar allows visitors to filter events by date, location, audience, event type, and language.
Accessibility Services
KCLS provides accessible services, collections, and facilities at library locations. Accessibility support includes accessible formats, assistive technology, and accommodation requests.
Accessible resources include large print books, digital collections, captioned materials, and computer accessibility software. Library locations also provide accessibility features such as accessible entrances and other building services.
Users who need an accommodation for a library event should contact the librarian hosting the event at least one week before the event date. Accessibility questions can also be directed through KCLS contact services.
Contacting King County Library System
KCLS provides several ways to get help with accounts, holds, resources, and library services. Users can contact the library by phone, chat, or email.
Phone assistance is available through KCLS customer service at (425) 462-9600 or (800) 462-9600 within Washington State. Staff can help with account questions, holds, and service information.
Library cardholders can also use online chat to connect with library staff for help finding resources, using the catalog, and receiving referrals to available services.
Library Departments and Offices
King County Library System Administrative Offices
960 Newport Way NW
Issaquah, WA 98027
(425) 369-3200
Library FAQs
How can I get a King County Library System card?
You can apply for a library card online or visit a library location in person. An All-Access Library Card is available for eligible residents and property owners and allows access to physical materials and digital resources. A Digital Library Card provides online access to eBooks, magazines, films, music, online classes, tutorials, and research resources. Learn more about eligibility and application options on the King County Library System Library Cards page.
What should I bring when applying for a library card?
Applicants requesting an All-Access Library Card should provide photo identification showing their date of birth and proof of their current address. Property owners may need additional proof of ownership. Minors under age 18 may apply with address verification provided by a parent or guardian. If you are unsure which documents apply to your situation, review the official card requirements before visiting a library location.
How do I find a nearby library location and available services?
The official location directory allows users to search libraries by name, address, or ZIP code. Individual location pages provide details about available services and facilities. You can use the King County Library System locations directory to find a library near you and check location information before visiting.
How can I access digital books and online learning resources?
Library cardholders can use digital resources from home, including eBooks, downloadable audiobooks, magazines, films, music, and educational tools. Digital reading options include Libby for eBooks, magazines, and audiobooks. Users can also access learning resources such as online classes, tutorials, language learning tools, test preparation, and research databases through their library accounts.
What can I do if I cannot visit a library in person?
King County Library System provides online access and visit options designed for different needs. Users can manage accounts, place holds, access digital collections, and use online services without visiting a branch. Some locations also offer 24/7 locker pickup for holds, allowing users to collect reserved items outside regular library hours. Visit the Plan Your Visit page for information about computers, Wi-Fi, returns, meeting spaces, and locker pickup services.