Connect with Your Library

New Library Card Designs

As a curious, open-minded, voracious reader and lifelong learner, you know just how invaluable a library card is. It is a point of access to millions of materials, an open door to valuable opportunities, and so much more! This year, ten new library card designs are available at all 41 library locations. 

Take a sneak peek of the new library card designs!

Welcome library card
Minerva library card mockup
Northern library card design
Dragon library card design
Pride library card
Black Heritage library card design
East African library card design
Asian Pacific Heritage library card design
Native library card design
Latino library card design

9 Ways to Get the Most Out of Your Library Card

Whether your library card is new or well-loved for decades, we hope you'll enjoy these tips to maximize your library experience.

1. Get Personalized Book Suggestions

We’ve all been there: There are so many books…what to read next? Ask Us services is here to help! Just let them know what you’re looking for in your next read and receive personalized recommendations in your email.

What should I read next?

 

2. Sign up for Author Alerts

Ensure you’re the first to know when a book from your favorite author is available by setting an author alert! 

Set an alert for your favorite author

3. Suggest a  Title

Can’t find the book you’re looking for? You can suggest a title for the library to purchase! Fill out a short form with the book’s information up to five times per month.

Suggest a title

 

4. Browse Related Titles

When you find a book you love on the library's online catalog, you can scroll down on the book’s page to find a list of recommendations! Look for the section toward the bottom of the page titled “You may also like” and begin browsing.

 

5. Gain New Skills with LinkedIn Learning

Access thousands of lessons for all skill levels on a wide variety of topics, including business skills and software; web design and development; music, photo, and video editing; 3D design and animation; and more!

Get started

 

6. Explore Genealogy and Local History

Dive into the history of your family or city with the many archives and collections at the library. From FamilySearch, the world’s largest collection of family trees and genealogy records, to the Hennepin County Yearbook Collection, the library has all you need to awake your inner historian.

Start exploring

 

7. Borrow eBooks, audiobooks, and more from your library for free!

If you prefer downloadable eBooks and audiobooks, streaming videos, and eMagazines, your library is here for you! Your library card is the key to thousands of items on OverDrive Digital Library. Or, try OverDrive Libby app for easy access on your mobile device.

Connect to the library's e-resources

 

8. Connect to Minnesota Music

More than 400 albums from Minnesotan artists are available for streaming and download with MNspin. From hip-hop, jazz, and underground rock, to mariachi, reggae, country, and more, MNspin features Minnesota’s stunning range of musical talent. 

Listen to MNspin

9. Experience Twin Cities Art Scene with smARTpass

You can use your library card to get free and discounted tickets to a wide range of art experiences! Visit the smARTpass website to register, find ticket offers, and sign up for notifications.

 

Our library is an extraordinary resource and a community treasure and we hope it never goes away. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

~Kathy S., Hennepin County Library patron