Get a Library Card

To borrow library materials, request items from other libraries, or access many of our online research & learning tools, you must have a current library card.

What if I have a card from another CW MARS library?


If you have a card from another public library that is a member of our consortium, CW MARS (Central & Western Massachusetts Automated Resource Sharing, Inc.), you may use that card at the Jones Library and branches. PLEASE NOTE: This does not include college libraries. Check this list of CW MARS libraries or look for "CW MARS" printed on the card.
CW Mars Logo
Please note that a Jones Library card is required to access our subscription to ConsumerReports.org and several other online research & learning tools.

How do I apply for a Jones Library card?


Any Massachusetts resident age 4 or older may apply for a Jones Library card. You can apply in person at the Jones Library or at one of our branches. Please bring:

  • a photo ID (driver’s license, passport, student ID)
  • proof of address (paper or digital bill, rental agreement, car registration, bank check or any piece of mail with your name and address on it)

Can I apply for a card online?


You can apply for a CW MARS eCard online. With a CW MARS eCard, you can get immediate access to digital collections (books, audiobooks, magazines) and online tools. To apply for an eCard, you must:

Email Icon

Get a CW MARS eCard




Email Icon

Obtenga una Tarjeta Electrónica CW MARS


An eCard can be upgraded to a physical library card, which will allow you to borrow and request physical materials, by visiting your local CW MARS library.

ATTENTION STUDENTS: If you live in a college dormitory, our eCard authentication process may not be able to verify your mailing address, so please visit us to apply for your library card.

Questions about library cards should be directed to the Jones Library Circulation Desk at 413-259-3092 or circulation@joneslibrary.org.

How do I renew my library card?



Email Icon

Renew an Expired Card




Email Icon

Renovación de Tarjeta de Biblioteca Vencida




Questions about library cards should be directed to the Jones Library Circulation Desk at 413-259-3092 or circulation@joneslibrary.org.

Are library cards free?


Library cards are free for most Massachusetts residents. Residents of non-certified Massachusetts towns may purchase a Jones Library card for $35 per year per person, payable to Jones Library, Inc. Please note that other CW MARS libraries are not required to honor library cards issued to residents of non-certified Massachusetts towns.

Can I get a library card if I don’t live in Massachusetts?


Yes. Out-of-state residents may purchase a Jones Library card for $35 per year per person, payable to Jones Library, Inc. A Jones Library card may be used at all three public libraries in Amherst, but other CW MARS libraries are not required to honor library cards issued to patrons who do not live in Massachusetts. (Please note: This option is designed to serve people who are living or working in the Amherst area temporarily. Please apply in person at one of our libraries.)

What if I lose my card?


Please report lost cards to any Circulation Desk as soon as possible. (Phone numbers are listed under the Contact Us heading on this page.) Replacement cards are free.

I've moved. What should I do?


Please report address changes to any Circulation Desk by completing this short form.
Updated January 24, 2022