Teacher Cards

Teacher Card FAQs

• How do I request Library Cards for Students?

  When you request a class visit, please upload a class roster with your students' full names and birth dates. A staff member will follow up with you on next steps. 

  • Oakland Public Library cards are good at any branch of the OPL system. 
  • There is no charge for new or replacement cards.
  • Students who have lost their cards do not need to apply again. They will need to confirm their address, phone number, and date of birth.
  • Encourage your students to return any books they may have at home!

• How Can I Verify My Current Teacher Status?

  You can verify your current Teacher Status with any of the following:

  • School or institution ID
  • School or institution paystub
  • CA family childcare home license
  • Affidavit of Private School
  • Letter of acknowledgement of homeschooling from a local school district (Oakland, Piedmont, or Emeryville)

• How Do I Apply for a Teacher Card?

  There's no separate application for a Teacher Card. Fill out a regular library card application and visit the library or contact us to request teacher card status.

  Teacher cards must be renewed every two years by showing proof of continued work as an educator.

• What are the Benefits of Teacher Cards?

  • Borrow print books for six weeks instead of three
  • Up to 30 holds at a time, instead of 15

   

  Teacher cards cannot be used to borrow Link+ or interlibrary loan items, or items for personal use. 

   

  eBooks and other digital materials cannot checked out for longer than usual with a Teacher Card.

• Who Can Get a Teacher Card?

  Any individual who currently works as a:

  • teacher
  • educator
  • administrator
  • librarian
  • childcare provider
  • afterschool program provider

  at a school, childcare facility, adult educational facility, or afterschool program in the cities of Oakland, Emeryville, or Piedmont.

  You will need a paystub or other proof of employment.