Community Patron Program

Library Card Applications

The Oregon State University Libraries offers free access to and borrowing of many on-site resources at the Valley Library in Corvallis, at the Guin Library at Hatfield Marine Science Center in Newport, and at the OSU Cascades Library at Central Oregon Community College in Bend to Oregon residents and corporations.

With a library card and photo identification, borrowers may have:

Up to 10 items checked out from the on-site general collection.
Up to 10 holds on items that are checked out.
Use of items from the Course Reserves collection.
Use of items located in Storage at the Corvallis campus.
Access to on-site resources, including self-service copying, library catalogs, Learning Commons computers, and Reference service.

Those interested may register at the Circulation desk in one of the libraries by presenting a completed application, which is available at the desk or online. Patron records are valid for one year and may be renewed in person with proof of residency or group membership.

Any Oregon library's card with an identification barcode that is readable by the OSU Libraries system may be used to borrow materials from OSU Libraries. Otherwise, an OSU Convenience Card must be purchased for $1. A library card and photo identification are required when checking out materials.

Patrons may view their library records online through the OASIS catalog. Records are blocked if unpaid fines exceed $100 or there are overdue items which have been recalled.

Oregon Residents

Oregon residents, 16 years of age or older, need to bring proof of a current Oregon mailing address, such as an Oregon Drivers License or a piece of canceled mail; a forwarding address of a friend or family member who will forward mail to you if you should move unexpectedly; proof of age; and picture identification.

Oregon Corporations

Oregon corporations may have up to 5 OSU Libraries convenience cards under the corporate name for use by employees. A completed Corporate Borrower Application (available online or at Circulation) signed by an authorized representative of the corporation is required together with a signed letter of authorization on corporate letterhead. There is a $1 charge per card.

OSU Alumni Association

OSU Alumni Association members need not be Oregon residents, but do need to show a current Alumni Association card in lieu of proof of Oregon residency. Also need is a forwarding address of a friend or family member who will forward mail to you if you should move unexpectedly and picture identification.

Friends of the Library

Friends of the Library need not be Oregon residents, but do need to show proof of current membership. There is a $35 annual membership fee. Applications are available online and at the Valley Library Circulation desk.