The Free Library of Philadelphia has made it easier for people to obtain library cards.<\/p>\n
Now, any Pennsylvania adult or teenager can submit an\u00a0online<\/a> application, the library said<\/a>. Library cards also are available to people who work, pay taxes or attend school in Pennsylvania.\u00a0Previously, applicants had go to a branch to apply and show proof of eligibility.<\/p>\n MORE:\u00a0For Record Store Day, WXPN is dropping a compilation that includes a song from its 1,000th Free at Noon concert<\/a><\/p>\n Children 12 and under can obtain library cards, but they must apply in person.<\/p>\n Existing library cards can be added to digital wallets, so people don’t need to show a physical card to check out books, DVDs and\u00a0video games<\/a>, or to access online research databases. They also can check out\u00a0birding backpacks<\/a> and access public wifi at the city’s 54 branches.<\/p>\n The option to apply for a card online may make the library more accessible. The Free Library branches generally are only open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with longer hours on Wednesdays. The library also has resumed Saturday hours<\/a> at most branches after having cut back in 2018 and suspending all weekend operations during the COVID-19 pandemic.\u00a0<\/p>\n