Acceptable Forms of Identification for Library Use of Reference Materials

To maintain the collection for the enjoyment of patrons, SFPL requires those wishing to use LIBRARY USE ONLY or "Reference" materials from Paging and Reference Desks to deposit one of the following forms of photo identification (ID), which will be returned upon the intact return of library materials:

• Current San Francisco Public Library card (preferred form of ID)
• Current San Francisco City ID
• Current California Driver License
• Current California State ID
• Current out-of-state driver license
• Current military ID
• Current school-issued ID (student or faculty)

Identification that is not acceptable includes:

• Alien registration card
• Bank or ATM card
• Cash
• Consular ID
• Credit card
• Employee ID**
• International driver license**
• Library card from another California library
• Medi-Cal or health insurance ID
• Passport (U.S. or other)**
• Personal items (e.g. keys, credit card, MUNI Fast Pass or BART ticket)
• Social Security card

Patrons without acceptable ID at the Main Library may use one reference item at a time at the designated table near the Art, Music & Recreation; Business, Science & Technology; General Collections or the SF History reference desks. Please check with a librarian before taking material to the copier.

** Due to their controlled environments, the San Francisco History and Book Arts & Special Collections Centers will accept current international driver licenses, passports and employee ID from San Francisco city departments.

Patrons, please make sure you have received your correct ID when you return reference materials.