Account / Library Cards
Below is a summary of library policies. Please click for the full Borrowing Privileges policy.
Keokuk and Rural Lee County Residents
can apply for a library card at the Circulation Desk during library hours. You must show identification and be over 18. You must also give the name and phone number of a reference on the application.
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Children
must be at least 6 years old and be able to print their first and last name. A parent or legal guardian must show identification and sign the registration card for children ages 6-10.
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Ages 11-17 can register for a library card without a parent/guardian signature - just bring your student ID, your contact information, and the name and phone number for a parent or legal guardian.
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Parents Please Note:
According to Iowa Code 613.16, legal guardians are responsible for fines and fees incurred by children under the age of 18.
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Also - the library cannot assume the role of parents or the functions of parental authority in the private relationship between parent and child. Only parents and guardians have the right and the responsibility to determine their children’s access to library resources. Parents and guardians who do not want their children to have access to specific library services, materials, or facilities should so advise their children. The Keokuk Public Library observes the First Amendment rights of every citizen, as cited in the American Library Association’s Bill of Rights.
Non-residents / Purchased Cards
may purchase individual library cards for the cost of $50 per year or $30 for six months. Non-residents who own property in Keokuk may register for a card at no cost.
Temporary residents
who reside at a temporary Keokuk address (half-way houses, shelter homes, residential treatment facilities, and hotels/motels) can apply for a free Temporary resident card. Temporary borrowers are limited to two items out at a time. An address check is required every 90 days.
Local Businesses and Organizations
may receive a library card. Application must be made by a responsible individual, and identification of this individual is required. Use of these cards entails acceptance of the same responsibilities as any other library card.
Keokuk School Students and Staff
The Keokuk Public Library offers free cards to students and staff of Southeastern Community College, Keokuk Catholic Schools, Keokuk Christian Academy, and Keokuk public schools. Please bring a school ID or another kind of verification.
Open Access Iowa
Iowa Residents who reside in a town that participates in the "Open Access" program can check out for free from any library that also participates in Open Access. This includes the Keokuk Public Library!
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If you're a Keokuk or rural Lee County resident traveling in Iowa and need some reading/listening/viewing material, stop at a library and ask:
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"Is this an Open Access library?"
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Then ask, "How do I get started?" All libraries are different, with different policies and procedures. Bring a valid ID (with proof of current address) and your KPL card and find out if they need anything else.
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Note: Open Access patrons cannot use our Inter-library Loan service, and cannot download books through our subscription to OverDrive/Bridges. (Please contact your hometown library for these things.) All KPL items checked out must be returned to the KPL on time or fines will be incurred. Drop off Open Access items at any Open Access library!