Many Texas libraries—public and academic—participate in TexShare, a library consortium. If you have a Library Card from a library in the TexShare group, you may be eligible for a TexShare Card. This acts as a voucher that can grant you borrowing privileges at other Texas libraries, including us.
Austin Public Library (APL) TexShare Cards are free, limited access cards for non-Austin residents who have an active TexShare Card from another library. With it, you get:
- 10 physical item checkouts (books, DVDs, etc.)
- 7 holds
- No interlibrary loan
- No Digital Resources* (no OverDrive, hoopla, databases, etc.)
To get an APL TexShare Card:
- If you have a TexShare Card (the paper one from a different library), go to Step 2.
If you need a TexShare Card, contact your library to learn if it participates in TexShare and if you're eligible for a TexShare Card. This would be any Texas library other than us with which you have a Library Card.
If you don't have a Library Card anywhere or your library isn't in the TexShare program, find a TexShare library near you with the list of Metro Area Libraries under Links & Files at the bottom of this page or search by city, county, or zip on the TexShare website.. After selecting a library, look for this:
Visit that library's website or call them to learn specific requirements for getting a Library Card and a TexShare Card. Policies will vary.
Please note: After getting a Library Card, you may need to wait 3-6 months or so and pay off any outstanding fines before you are eligible for the TexShare Card.
- Visit any of our Library locations. Fill out an online application in advance or an online or paper application onsite.
- Show your paper TexShare card plus a valid/acceptable photo ID and proof of address. You will get your APL TexShare Card on the spot.
*Learn about our eCard for access to our Digital Resources. Non-residents pay $22/year.