Get a Library Card

Full-service Library Card

Anyone can get a free library card at Sterling Municipal Library by applying in person with a government-issued picture ID that includes their date of birth, regardless of whether they live in Baytown; however, applicants under 18 need a parent or guardian to sign for their account with their own ID, and all cardholders are responsible for materials checked out.  

  • Access both physical (books/movies) and digital (ebooks/databases) collections
  • The first card is free
  • You do not need to live in Baytown. Apply in person using your government-issued picture ID that includes date of birth.
  • Card holders are responsible for all materials checked out with the library card
  • If you are under 18, a parent or guardian can bring in their ID and sign for your account

When you are establishing your account, you will be able to check out up to 12 items. Your account is considered established after 3 months, and once you have checked out and returned your first 15 items. After your account has been established, you will be able to check out up to 25 items. Items checked out can be renewed up to two times. 

Late Fees

If you owe a late fee, you can still check out items unless your fines exceed $10.00. Once total owed is less than $10.00, you can check out again. Fees will appear in the "Library Charge" section in My Account. Contact the library if you are unsure which title the fee is for.

Digital-only Library Card

If you are 18 or older, live in the Baytown area and want to check out eBooks, eAudiobooks, and use informational databases from the comfort of your home, you can get a digital library card that's good for three years (not needed if you already have a regular full-service card).  Apply for a digital card online.

  1. Expired Cards
  2. Lost Cards

Library cards will expire every three years. If your card has expired, you will need to either contact library services 281 427-7331 x2 or let us know when you visit.