Services for all New Yorkers
Before you apply: New Yorkers do not need a library card to access many of our resources! The NYS Library's Reference Services are available to all remotely or in-person and the NYS Library's circulating collections are available to New Yorkers through local libraries--just visit your local library to learn how they can connect you to information from the NYS Library's collection. Go beyond books and dive into databases available 24/7 to every New Yorker through NOVELny!
New Yorkers can use their library card in-person at the NYS Library located in Albany, N.Y. to borrow materials or use the public access computers.
Get a NYS Library Card
NYS government employees, appointed historians, physicians, attorneys, and all New Yorkers are invited to apply for a NYS Library card online using our online New York State Library Borrower's Card application or visiting the 7th floor of the Cultural Education Center during Library hours.
Card Benefits for Historians, Physicians, and Attorneys
The NYS Library offers additional services to support the work of attorneys, physicians, and appointed municipal historians in New York. In addition to borrowing materials from the Library's collection in-person, the Library offers a collection of online databases and full-text online journals and newspapers.
Additional Benefits for NYS Government Employees
Additional services are available for New York State Government (State Agency, Legislative and Judicial) employees including trainings and loaning materials from other institutions through the Library's Interlibrary Loan services.
Renew or Replace Your Library Card
Library cards are set to expire every two years. To renew or replace a lost card, contact the NYS Library's Circulation Unit and they'll make sure your account is current so there are no service disruptions.