San Francisco Public Library is committed to supporting children with learning and academic development by working with schools and teachers. Teachers often need to reserve and borrow large quantities of library materials and to keep them for longer periods of time. Teacher Library Cards meet these needs.

What is a Teacher Library Card?

Teacher Library Cards allow teachers to borrow library materials for longer, to request more reserves, and to request multiple copies of the same items. Replacement fees for lost or damaged items are charged.

The teacher card is not eligible to borrow Link+ or interlibrary loan items.

Regular Library Card Teacher Library Card Loan Period

duration for borrowing an item 21 days (3 weeks) with 3 renewals 42 days (6 weeks) with 3 renewals Item Limit

number of items borrowed 50 100 Hold Item Limit

number of items on hold 20 40 Multiple Holds

on same item No Yes, with librarian assistance

Teacher cards are for material for curriculum support or classroom use only. Teachers may use their personal cards for library materials checked out for personal use.

There is no separate application form. To receive a teacher card, complete the regular library card application and request teacher card status. The teacher’s residential address will be the primary address on library account; school name and address will be the secondary address. The teacher can select either home or school email address.

Subject matter limits may be imposed at the discretion of librarian based upon the information needs of other library users.

Teacher cards have a duration of one year from the date of the application and will be renewed with proof of current teacher status.

Who can get a teacher library card?

A teacher is anyone currently employed as a teacher, educator, administrator, librarian, childcare provider, or afterschool program provider at a school, childcare facility, or afterschool program in the City and County of San Francisco, or teachers who are residents of San Francisco but teach in districts outside of San Francisco .

How to get a Teacher Library Card

Apply in person at your library;

Show valid photograph identification; and

Proof of current teacher status in San Francisco, as follows: School or childcare identification; or School or childcare paystub.



Who is responsible for charges on a teacher library card?

Teachers are personally responsible for paying lost and damaged fees. Teacher card privileges will be suspended if any item is 60 days overdue.