Get a library card

A library card gives you borrowing and computer usage privileges, and also allows you to access the library's online resources from your home computer. If you have a library card, here's where to access your account.

You MUST have your Library Card to borrow materials or use the library computers  to ensure accuracy in all transactions, and to protect your account. You may present either your physical card, or a digital version on your smartphone using the CW MARS app (iOS | Android) or apps like StoCard. 

Adult Library Cards

To obtain an adult library card, present one of the following:

  • a valid Massachusetts driver's license with your current address
  • a valid Massachusetts State Identification Card with your current address

OR:

Any one identification from each of the following two lists:

1. Current picture ID that includes name and photo:

2. Address Verification (If you use a P.O. box, we need something with your residential address on it):

Additional Information

If you are unable to provide these means of ID and address verification, we will mail you a postcard, and when you bring the card back, you will receive your card.

Most cards are valid for two years unless otherwise noted. Cards can be easily renewed at the check out desks or over the phone by confirming orally that you still live at your current address.

If you have moved, you are required to show the staff and re-verify your address by presenting one of the noted address verifications.

Please note: If your address was verified by either post card or letter, every 3 months you will be required to confirm your address orally.

Young Adult Cards & Children's Cards

If you have completed the sixth grade, but are not yet 18, and cannot meet the ID requirements, you will need your parent or guardian (with sufficient ID) to sign the application

Children ages 5 through the sixth grade need a parent or guardian (with sufficient ID) to sign the library application.

eCards

To apply for an eCard, click here.

An eCard is a CW MARS library card that you can register for online to access electronic materials, such as ebooks, audiobooks, magazines, and databases. 

The eCard is for patrons who do not already have a CW MARS library card and may be upgraded to a physical library card with borrowing privileges by visiting your local library. For more information about the eCard, read the FAQ.

You are eligible to apply for a CW MARS eCard, if you...

  • live in a Massachusetts town with a CW MARS member library,
  • are age 13 or older,
  • and do not currently have a library card from a CW MARS member library.

Call the library at 978-829-1780 if you are not eligible to register online or to renew an expired card.

Out-of-State Residents

If you are an out-of-state resident with sufficient identification, you are eligible for a library card for an annual $35 non-refundable fee. (This fee is waived if you own property in Fitchburg and present a tax bill.) If a person lives out-of-state, but works in Fitchburg, s/he may bring in a pay stub from the employer, and then pay only a $10 annual fee. If a parent pays the $35 fee, his/her children may receive cards for free. Please note that out-of-state cards must be applied for in person.

College or Private Students

If you are a student at a local college or private high school, and have your school ID, plus photo ID with your home address, you may receive a library card. Students must show a permanent address as well as a local address. Student cards are valid until the end of the semester or school year.

Checkout Limits & Loan Periods

For information about checkout limits, loan periods, renewals, and fines, go to this page.

Using Your Card at Other CW MARS Libraries

Your Fitchburg library card is good at other CW MARS libraries, and if you have a library card from another CW MARS library, you may use it here in Fitchburg. Here is a list of all CW MARS libraries.