For Individuals
In order to borrow materials from the Thayer Memorial Library, individuals must register for a Thayer Memorial Library card. Cards are issued free of charge to Lancaster residents and Commonwealth residents from communities with certified libraries. Applicants who do not meet residency requirements may purchase a card for a non-refundable fee of $15 per year.
Acceptable Identification
Applicants for Thayer Memorial Library cards must bring a valid Massachusetts driver’s license or any valid federal or state identification card that includes a photograph and identifying information including name and residential address.
The following are considered acceptable identification:
- a valid Massachusetts driver’s license
- a driver’s instruction permit or identification card issued by the Massachusetts Motor Vehicle Division with residential address
- official photo identification card from a school, government agency, employer, etc.
If the above identification does not include a current residential address, the applicant must also bring in two of the following documents:
- a current residential property tax statement, rent receipt or lease agreement
- a current utility bill
- a bank checkbook with a current address imprinted on the checks
- a current bank statement
- cancelled mail with the applicant’s current residential address postmarked within the last week.
All cards are valid for two years, at the end of which time applicants will be asked to present an acceptable form of identification for address verification.
The Library may, at any time before the expiration date, require that current address identification be shown. Therefore, borrowers should carry appropriate identification in addition to the Thayer Memorial Library card.
A Library card will become invalid if the patron changes residence.
Youths under 18
For applicants under the age of eighteen (18) to obtain borrowing privileges, a parent or legal guardian must be present to sign a completed application. Applicants must be at least 5 years of age and able to sign their name. Parents or guardians will be responsible for all items checked out on their children’s cards. Parents/Legal Guardians reserve the right to suspend the library privileges of minors for whom they are responsible.
For Schools and Local Residential Programs
Local organizations with students and/or residents may register for a Library card to be used by the organization’s staff to check out materials. Cards are issued to organizations which assume all responsibility for any activity on their account and assume all fine and replacement costs. Local organizations should contact the director for further details.