How Do I...

...get a library card

To sign up for a library card at the Elkader Public Library, you must complete the Library Card Application form and bring your state issued ID (typically a Driver's License). If you state issued ID does not show your current address, you will need to bring a piece of mail (we ask that you bring something that does not say Current Resident anywhere in the addressee line) that shows your current address.

For a child:

Children who have completed the 2nd grade or have turned 7 years of age and are able to write their own name are able to receive a library card at the Elkader Public Library. Their legal guardian needs to complete the application on their behalf and be present during the creation of the library card with their ID. While others can bring the child to check-out items, a legal guardian must be the one to establish the library card for the child.

For a non-Iowa resident:

Non-residents are able to receive library cards at the Elkader Public Library, but they have an annual fee of $25 that is due at the time of opening the account. This fee is due at each renewal yearly renewal period. 

...request an Interlibrary Loan

If you can't find the item you are looking for in our catalog, let us see if we can request it from another library in the state. To do this, request the item via our catalog or contact us by stopping in, calling, or emailing and letting us know (1) the item you are looking for, (2) the format of the item, (3) if you are okay requesting the item from more than just public libraries** and we'll do the rest. We will contact you when we have updates regarding your request.

**Requests to public libraries are free because we are able to utilize the IAShares system, while requests to academic libraries (i.e., the University of Iowa) and other special libraries carry a blanket $7.00 fee to cover shipping costs.

The due date for the item is assigned by the lending library and Interlibrary Loan items incur a fine of $1.00 for every day that they are late.