Quote:
Originally Posted by Marlenas
It's too bad that you can't apply for and receive library cards online because there are so many wonderful libraries around the world
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It depends on the library, but, yes, you can apply for and even receive library cards online in many public library systems. Some even have online only cards for people who need database or e-book access only (these are often called researcher cards). Also, most systems will cheerfully make arrangements to accommodate people with temporary or permanent disabilities. Just call or e-mail and ask.
Public library funding in the States is a dog's breakfast, so most will charge non-resident fees (which I've seen in Canada, too). I think some of the California libraries have researchers cards which allow electronic access (databases and sometimes e-books, dependent on licensing issues). NYPL does, too. I know Enoch Pratt in Baltimore was considering it, but they don't have e-books. There are others.
Unlike everyone else here, I've had horrible luck with Overdrive. I administer library computer systems for a living, and I couldn't get it working (under Windows - I didn't even try on my Linux computers at home). Very embarrassing. So I'm still walking to the library on my lunch half hour to get dead tree books.