Guests and alumni living in Iowa can choose between applying for a free library visitor card or a paid library visitor card. All cards must be renewed annually.
Free library visitor card holders can
- borrow up to 25 items at a time
- keep items for up to 12 weeks, unless they are recalled
Paid library visitor card holders can
- borrow up to 25 ISU Library items at a time
- keep items for up to 12 weeks, unless they are recalled
- borrow items from other libraries around the U.S. using interlibrary loan.
All library visitor card holders can only use online resources in the library or while on campus.
Visit the Main Desk at Parks Library to fill out an application or learn more about the process. You can also call 515-294-3961 or email circdesk@iastate.edu with questions.
When you apply, you may borrow up to 5 items immediately. Once you receive your card in the mail, you may return to check out additional items.
Applications will be approved for those with valid Iowa addresses and no outstanding library fines.
If you lose your library visitor card, replacing it will cost $25.
Dependents of ISU employees or students
If you are a spouse, domestic partner, or dependent of an Iowa State University employee or student, you can get an ISUCard through the ISUCard office. You will have the same privileges as a paid library visitor card.
Iowa residents and ISU alumni living in Iowa
If you are an Iowa resident 18 years and older or an alumni of Iowa State University living in Iowa, you can apply for a free library visitor card, or purchase a paid library visitor card (which provides interlibrary loan access) for an annual fee of $25.
Students at other colleges and universities in Iowa
If you are a student at a FastTRAC institution, you can use your institution’s library card.
If you are a student at another Iowa college or university, you can apply for a free visitor card, but you cannot use ISU’s interlibrary loan. We encourage you to use your own library’s interlibrary loan service.
Out-of-state guests and alumni
Any visitors who do not live in Iowa are welcome to use print and online resources within our library buildings.