Library cards
You can apply for a library card online
Library cards are valid for all public libraries in Barcelona and for some time now have been valid in the rest of Catalonia too. The cards, which are free, personal and non-transferable, allow you to use the various services, which includes borrowing items, home reading, internet and Wi-Fi access and consulting specialist collections, as well as taking part in reading clubs and the specific courses offered in the multimedia rooms. Duplicates are charged at 1 euro.
You can apply for a library card online. You just need to fill in the form, state which library you wish to collect your card from and then send the form off. Get your library card
Accreditation as a registered user in libraries can be done either through the BibliotequesXBM mobile application or by presenting your physical card.
The card expires after 5 years without using it.
To take out a library card, children under the age of 14 must produce their Spanish national ID card or resident-foreigner ID number, if they have one. In any case, they will need to show authorisation from their parents or legal guardians. Such authorisation enables them to use all the library services, including access to the Internet. The library will keep a record with such authorisations. The use that children and young people under the age of 18 make of their library card shall be the responsibility of their parents or legal guardians, who are required to exercise the necessary supervision and control.
Organisations, associations and institutions that so request may receive a collective library card issued on their behalf, stating the person(s) responsible and authorised for its use.
Advantages with a Biblioteques de Barcelona library card
Biblioteques library card users can subscribe to the discounts newsletter and receive a fortnightly email listing a selection of cultural activities currently on. They will also have a whole host of cultural organisations at their disposal, including bookshops, museums, theatres and cinemas offering such activities permanent discounts with a Biblioteques library card.