A membership at Vaughan Public Libraries (VPL) grants you a library card, the ability to borrow items, and access to library services and resources. You do not need a library card to visit our libraries and enjoy the public spaces.
How to get a Free Membership
You may become a VPL Member for free if you live, work, own property, or study in the City of Vaughan, a York Region municipality*, City of Brampton, or Town of Caledon.
When applying to become a member you will need to show valid identification. If you do not have valid identification, you may choose to submit a Declaration of Eligibility instead. Please ask the Service Desk for more information.
* York Region Municipalities include Aurora, East Gwillimbury, Georgina, King, Markham, Newmarket, Richmond Hill, Vaughan, and Whitchurch-Stouffville.
Alternative Options
If you do not qualify for a free membership, you may choose to apply for one of the following paid membership options. These memberships are renewed on a yearly basis.
Non-Resident Library Card ($80 + tax, valid for 1 year)
This option grants you a library card and the same full access as with the free membership.
Non-Member Library Card ($10 + tax, valid for 1 year)
This type of library card allows you to use our public computer workstations and printers but does not allow you to borrow items or access library services and resources.
Apply Online
You may apply online for a Digital Membership, which grants you a 14-digit library card number and immediate access to library services and resources. You may only borrow up to 10 items. You may not check out devices or Lendery items. You must meet the same criteria as with the free membership to be eligible.
If you already have a digital membership, you may visit any VPL location to get a physical library card and to remove the limitations for borrowing. You will need to show valid identification.
Apply in Person
You may visit any VPL location to apply for a membership or a non-member library card. Please visit the Service Desk.
Children’s Memberships
Children under the age of 13 and accompanied by a parent or guardian may apply for a children's library card. The application process is the same as with adult memberships. A children’s library card does not allow the cardholder to borrow materials that have a "restricted" label or rating. This may include movies or TV shows that are rated R, and video games that are rated M. Parents and guardians are responsible for monitoring and limiting the use of library materials by their children.
Acceptable Identification
You will need to present valid identification before you can receive your library card. A valid piece of identification must include your name and home address. If applying for a free membership, you must present identification that proves that you meet at least one of the following criteria.
- Your current home address is in the City of Vaughan. (Examples include driver’s license or utility bill - telephone/hydro/cable)
- You are currently employed in the City of Vaughan. (Examples include pay stub or tax slip)
- You currently attend a school or post-secondary institution in the City of Vaughan. (An example is a report card)
- You have a title/deed for land owned in the City of Vaughan.
- You meet one or more of the above criteria from a York Region municipality, City of Brampton, or Town of Caledon.
Personal Identification Number (PIN)
A PIN is necessary to access your library account online, access databases and digital resources. You can set up your PIN at any VPL location or select your PIN when you apply online. Please remember this number.
If you forget your PIN
- You may visit any VPL location to have your PIN reset with the help of library staff. You will need to have your library card or valid identification with you.
- You may reset your PIN on the VPL website or mobile app by visiting the account login page. Click or tap on the "Forgot your PIN?" link within the login form.
Changing your PIN
You may also change your PIN at any time using the above methods. If you subscribed to our Text Notification system, you would need to alert the text provider of the changed PIN by texting NEWPASS to 647-694-1289.