How do I validate my NYPL account?
I applied for a card online, and I got a temporary account (expiring in two weeks). How can I get an online library card that will not expire so soon?
Answer
If when you applied for an NYPL library card you were issued a card that expires in 30 days, this indicates that our online application system was not able to verify your location in New York State.
To extend this temporary account further, you're asked to please show staff proof of home address, and if you live outside of New York, proof that you currently attend school, own property, or work and pay taxes here in New York State.
Please see this page for accepted documentation to validate your account:
https://www.nypl.org/help/library-card/terms-conditions#Eligibility
The fastest way to show proof and have your card validated is to visit any NYPL location in the Bronx, Manhattan or Staten Island:
http://www.nypl.org/locations
There may be other options depending on your exact circumstances (for instance, if you're homebound). For more information please chat with AskNYPL (Monday to Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.)
https://www.nypl.org/get-help/contact-us/chat , or call 917-275-6975, Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
If calling or chatting, please have your card number or username available, and be prepared to answer a few questions to prove you're the card holder (e.g. name, home ZIP code, date of birth, etc.).