Starting September 1st, we’re making access to our most popular programs more equitable for Long Beach residents.

Starting September 1st, we’re making access to our most popular programs more equitable for Long Beach residents.

Here’s what’s coming:

  • Registration will open one week before the program at 6:30 PM
  • Your Long Beach Public Library card will be required to register

Don’t panic! Library card verification will be phased in through October starting with our most popular kids’ program “Molly Mouse”.

The fastest way to register is to do it yourself online. You can also call or stop by a Library location so a staff member can register you.

Starting August 22nd, we’re having drop-in lessons on using the online calendar and registering for programs. Stop by every Tuesday from 6:30 to 8:00 PM in the 1st floor lobby of the Main Library. You can bring your own device or use a Library laptop.

FAQs

  • Why open registration at 6:30 PM?
    • We’ve just gotten too popular for our own good 😉 But really, with how fast seats fill up for some programs, we’ve heard from a lot of people who miss out when registration occurs during the workday.
  • Why will LBPL cards be required?
    • Every Long Beach resident supports the Library with their tax dollars so it seems only fair to prioritize Long Beach residents!
  • What if I don’t have an LBPL card?
    • Whether you’re a newborn baby or the oldest resident in Long Beach, you can get a Library card! Anyone who lives, works, owns property, goes to school, or owns a business in Long Beach can get one. Sign up online or in-person at any LBPL location.
  • What should I do if I had a Library card but I lost it or I don’t remember the number?
    • Stop by any Library location between 9/1/2023 and 9/30/2023 to receive a free replacement Library card in honor on National Library Card Sign-Up Month.
  • What do I need to get an LBPL card?
    • For children
      • A document with the child’s name and parent/caregiver’s ID and proof of address.
    • For teens and adults
      • Photo identification with a Long Beach address
        • OR
      • Photo identification AND proof that you live, work, own property, own a business, or go to school in Long Beach
    • But what if my name isn’t on a rental agreement? Or utilities aren’t in my name? Can I still get an LBPL card?
      • We’ll do our best to work with everyone who’s eligible to make sure they get a card. Just stop by the Main Library and ask to speak to a supervisor.
    • What if I love your programs and am not a Long Beach resident?
      • You’ll have an opportunity to put your name on a “pending waitlist”. If there are still spots available three days before the program, your registration will be confirmed by email.
    • What do you mean by “most popular programs”?
      • For kids, this means programs like Molly Mouse and Sign Language
      • For adults, these are our exercise classes and most of our arts and crafts programs
    • What about registration for all your other great programs?
      • Long Beach Public Library cards will not be required for other programs and depending on maximum capacity for a program, registration will either open immediately or three weeks before the program at 6:30 PM.

Remember to have your Library card available when you register! You must enter your card number to complete your registration!