Library Card Information

Individuals who live, work, attend school, or own property in Gaston County may obtain a library card at no charge.

One current, official ID with photo, name and address (example: driver's license); or, two valid ID documents that verify name and address (examples: recent utility or phone bill, bank statement) are required to obtain a library card.

Child Library CardA child's registration (15 and under) requires parent/legal guardian signature and ID.

Out-of-County Card Fee: $25 per year

Please report a lost or stolen library card immediately to avoid unauthorized usage and charges.

Your Library Card:

  • Adult Library CardEntitles you to borrow materials from any Gaston County Public Library location
  • Must be presented each time a loan is made unless your photo is on file
  • Must be presented each time you use a public-access computer unless your photo is on file
  • Is not transferable - you are responsible for all items borrowed on your library card
  • Remains valid for three years and will be renewed at no charge

Loans & Returns

Loan Periods:

  • Books and audios: 21 days
  • Bestsellers, high-demand, and holiday books: 7 days
  • DVDs: 7 days

Returned check fee: $25

Renewals:

  • Books and audios: One Renewal
  • Bestsellers, high-demand, and holiday books: One Renewal
  • DVDs: One Renewal

Materials may be renewed in-library, online, or by telephone.

Holds may be placed in-library, online, or by telephone.

Returns may be made to any Gaston County Public Library location.

Temporary Virtual Card

If you have an existing library card account or if you are Gaston County School, Gaston Day School, or Piedmont Community Charter School student with a WOW card, you do not need to apply for this temporary card. If you need help with that card please contact us via email.

Younger citizens without access to a WOW card can have a parent apply.

Apply for this card online. This application will generate a non-functioning placeholder starting with PACREG. Once that application is received and completed, a library staff member will assign a functioning barcode and contact you with that number. Please be patient with us!

Please include your email address in the application. Failure to do so can cause a delay in getting your card number to you.

This fully functioning card will be valid for three months. We encourage you to visit any of our ten locations and convert this card into a physical card. This card will grant temporary access to all of our digital services as well as the ability to check out inside the library. See a complete listing of these services. For how-to videos on some of the key resources, please visit our Digital Portal.

If you are having trouble with the application or receive an error message while applying please please call the Main Library at 704-868-2164, ext. 5537, or email the library and someone will assist you.