A young woman studies at a table at the McCormick Branch while staff shelve books in the background.

Students

Welcome students! Discover all that the library has to offer you by getting a FREE library card and enjoy access to bookable study spaces, 3D printing services, online resources, exciting programs and more.

Sign Up for a Library Card

Signing up for a WPL card is free and easy! With your library card you can access premium resources like LinkedIn Learning, Simply Analytics and Gale Courses. We have so much available to help you on your journey through school.

How to Get a Card

  • Sign Up In Person

    To sign up for a library card in person:

    1. Visit any WPL location.
    2. Show us your current student card with proof of your local address or your permanent address if you live on campus or commute from outside of Waterloo Region.
    3. That’s it! You will receive a physical library card that will be valid for one year, and will need to be renewed after this time.
  • Sign Up Online

    To sign up for a library card online:

    1. Visit our Membership page.
    2. Click the Register Online button.
    3. Fill in the registration form and click Submit.
    4. You will receive a barcode for a temporary digital library card that will be valid for 90 days.
    5. After 90 days, your card will need to be renewed in person at any WPL location and you will receive a regular (i.e. physical) library card that will be valid for one year and will need to be renewed annually.

FAQs

Exam Care Kits

We understand that exam season can be tough. That’s why, during exam season, we provide Exam Care Kits to students studying in our library spaces. Just ask our staff for a kit and treat yourself to some goodies!

Kits are only available during exam season – please keep an eye on our social media accounts and at our library locations for when kits become available.

A staff person holds a bowl full of Exam Care Kits for students

Online Resources

Discover a world of online entertainment and learning, with a wide range of eBooks, movies, TV shows, language learning resources, educational tools and more.

Programs & Events

Explore a variety of programs and events, from author talks and maker sessions to fun group challenges and trivia. You’re sure to find something you’ll enjoy.

Cool Things to Borrow

Who said the library was just about books? From ice skates and board games to puzzles and park passes, there is so much more you can borrow with your library card.