Borrowing
With your River Forest Library card, you have access to millions of books, DVDs, audiobooks, eBooks, magazines, and more!
Our staff is always ready to provide friendly, professional assistance when you need it. Come see what your library has to offer you today.
Use your card at:
- River Forest Public Library
- Any library in the SWAN System
- Many libraries in Illinois, including Chicago Public Library
You are responsible for all materials borrowed on your card so please,
- Do not lend your card to friends and relatives.
- Report any lost or damaged materials promptly.
- Keep any fines below $50. Patrons with fines over $50 or more than 10 overdue items will have their library privileges suspended until fines are paid below that threshold.
- Notify the Library immediately if your card is lost or stolen. If you need to replace a library card, present a photo ID with your name and current River Forest address to the Circulation Desk.
- Notify the Library of your new address if you move.
Please contact the Circulation Desk at (708) 366-5205 x 304 if you have any questions.
Digital Library Card
You can register for an online-only library card that will grant you access to the library’s eBooks, eAudiobooks, streaming services, and research databases. You will have the option to make it a full access card after registering and will be notified within a week by our circulation department. If you choose to change to a full access card, you can stop in with your ID to pick up your card or it can be sent to you in the mail.
Full Service Library Card
Visit the front desk and complete a short application. You will need to present a picture ID (such as a driver’s license or state ID) reflecting a current River Forest address. If you do not have an updated ID, please bring a photo ID and another document that shows current proof of residency in River Forest (utility bill, bank statement, or vehicle registration).
Children and teens under the age of 18 must have a parent sign their application for a card and present current proof of River Forest residency. Parents or guardians are responsible for materials checked out using their children’s cards.
Dominican and Concordia University Student Cards
Students who live on campus are eligible for a River Forest Public Library card. At the Library, present your valid student ID and a picture ID reflecting your current home address. Student library cards expire at the end of August. Students returning to campus in the fall must renew their cards for the new school year.
Renew Your Card
River Forest Public Library cards are valid for 5 years. If it is time to renew your library card, stop by the Circulation Desk with a photo ID that includes your River Forest address. Outstanding fees for overdue materials and lost/damaged items must be paid before the card can be renewed.
Lost Card
If you lose your library card, please contact the Circulation Desk as soon as possible. Stop by the desk next time you are in the Library or call us at (708) 366-5205 x 304 so that we can suspend your account. We will be happy to issue you a new card at no charge.