Getting a Library Card
The Joe Barnhart Bee County Library is the place to get books, movies, music, and more. We have online databases and e-books for all kinds of research and fun. You can get your very own library card by applying in person here at the library.
The Joe Barnhart Public Library Card is free for:
- All Bee County Residents
- Garza prison worker (ID required) residing on prison property
- Temporary residents residing within the County limits for six (6) consecutive weeks or more
- Students currently enrolled at Coastal Bend College (student ID required)
- Non-residents who own real property within the county limits.
For Non-Resident Patrons
- All patrons that do not fall into the above catagories are considered non-residents.
- A $5 non-resident fee applies to all non-residents.
Requirements for Library Card
Getting a library card requires government or collegiate photo I.D. with current residence. If your current government or collegiate issued I.D. does not have your current mailing address then one of the following may be used:
- Utility or telephone bill
- Voter registration card
- County property tax statement
- Personal check
All library cards must be signed before use as a binding agreement of library policy and use.
All library cards expire on an annual basis. Renewal fees will be charged to all non-residents at time of renewal.
All library card applicants must be 18 years of age.
If you are a parent or guardian, you may sign up children 17 or younger on your account.
Parents and guardians are then responsible for all library obligations of the minor.
Lost resident cards are $2 to replace. It is $2 to replace non-resident cards.
Educational Institution Borrower/Teacher Card
Each teacher must have a personal resident library card and must show proof of employment as a teacher or daycare worker.
The Teacher Card is to be used for classroom related materials only that are used in the classroom; no bestsellers, current fiction, etc. Cardholders may borrow up to 15 items at a time for a two (2) month loan period. Teachers may request extended loan periods for special projects. Three (3) Interlibrary Loan classroom items may be requested FREE of charge every month.
Teachers will be responsible for all lost or damaged items issued on card. All cards must be renewed every August with proof of employment as stated above. Teacher Cards expire every year at the end of the school term.
Cardholders must follow library policies as appropriate.