Library Card Policy

 

Policy Statement

The Spies Public Library provides equitable access to library services and resources through the issuance of library cards to residents, non-residents, children, students, educators, and eligible individuals with temporary or special circumstances. Library cards are issued in accordance with residency, age, and employment status, with specific provisions for temporary residents, public limit accounts, and staff privileges. All library cardholders are expected to provide accurate identification and proof of residency as required.

Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that all individuals have fair and consistent access to the resources and services of the Spies Public Library. It establishes clear guidelines for library card eligibility, registration, and management for residents, non-residents, children, students, educators, and staff. This policy also outlines procedures for providing proof of residency or employment, obtaining parental consent for minors, and issuing replacement cards. By defining these standards, the library can maintain accountability for borrowed materials, support safe and equitable use of its collections, and ensure that library services are available to the community in a responsible and organized manner.

 

Policy Details

 

Library Card Eligibility

The Spies Public Library issues a library card at no charge to all residents within our service area. This includes the City of Menominee and Menominee Township. Menominee County residents that do not qualify for a Spies Library Card will qualify for a Menominee County Library card.

Proof of identification and residency will be required. A driver’s license, tax receipt, voter registration card, Michigan identification card, property deed, utility bill, bank checks with imprint of name and address, or mortgage/lease agreement will be accepted as proof of current residency.

Non-resident Card

Non-residents living outside of the Spies Public Library Service area may obtain a library card for a fee. To receive a non-resident library card, individuals must provide proof of identification and current address.

Children/Student Card

A child living  within our service area is eligible for a library card. Children may register for a card at the age of 5 years old or upon entering Kindergarten. A parent’s signature is required for a library card issued to anyone under the age of 17. Children 16 and older can register for their own card without a parent’s signature by providing a valid driver’s license. However, without a parent’s signature, they will not be permitted to access the internet on library devices.

Children that are attending a school located in Menominee or Menominee Township but do not reside in our service area will not be charged nonresident fees.

Teacher Card

Educators can register for a Teacher Library Card. This library card allows teachers an extended loan period and an increase in the maximum number of books they can check out. Educators must provide proof of employment such as a current school ID, teaching contract, or letter from the school.

Public Limit Card

Individuals that do not have a permanent residence in Menominee or Menominee Township but have a temporary residence, such as living at the homeless shelter, will be permitted to register for public limit library card. In addition, the public limit library card will also apply to patrons who have had $50 or more in lost book fines forgiven. These individuals will have restrictions on the number of items they can check out at one time due to not having a permanent mailing address to contact the individual or a history of unreturned books.

Staff Privileges

Current Spies Public Library staff are entitled to extended loan periods.

Former staff members may be eligible to retain these privileges upon their departure from the library. Eligibility for continued privileges is determined at the discretion of the Library Director and is based on the circumstances under which the individual left their position.

Former staff who were terminated from employment are not eligible for continued staff privileges.

 

Registration/Replacement of Library Cards

Required registration information, as applicable, includes name, address, business address, telephone number, business telephone number, cell phone, and birthdate. Consent from a parent or legal guardian assuming financial responsibility will be required for a minor.

Lost, Damaged, or Stolen Cards

There is a $1.00 replacement charge for a lost or damaged library card. There is not a replacement charge for a stolen card. Proof of current residency is required at the time a replacement card is issued.

Policy Review

This policy shall be reviewed at least once every three years, or sooner if necessary, to ensure that it remains consistent with the library’s mission, addresses community needs, and aligns with current operational standards.

Policy Approval

This Circulation Use Policy has been reviewed and approved by the Library Director and the Board of Trustees of Spies Public Library. Approval ensures that the policy aligns with the library’s mission, operational standards, and community needs.

Effective Date: This policy is effective as of November 24, 2025.

Next Review: November 2028