Join the library

Joining the library is easy, free, and open to everyone. Membership gives you access to books, digital resources, programs and welcoming community spaces.

We offer a range of membership types to support different needs. Whether you’re a local resident, a student, a visitor or signing up for your family, we have an option for you.

Join the library

Conditions of library membership

Identification

We require identification and proof of your current residential address when joining the library. Please ask us for alternative options if required. 

Members under 15

If you are under 15, a parent or guardian must accept the library’s membership conditions. They are responsible for all items you borrow or access.

Using your library card

Your library card is needed to use library services. You can also download the Mackay Libraries app to access a digital version of your card.

Borrowing responsibilities

You are responsible for all items borrowed on your card. Items that are lost, damaged, or long overdue will incur replacement charges, which cannot be refunded. Items must be returned on or before the due date unless renewed. Charges will be applied automatically for long‑overdue items.

 
Membership status

Your membership may be suspended if you have overdue items or unpaid charges.

Keeping your details up to date

Report lost or stolen cards to Mackay Regional Council Libraries. You must also notify the library if your contact details change.

Library rules

All members must follow Mackay Regional Council’s local laws and library policies.

Welcome Membership

Who can join

The Welcome Membership is a short-term option designed to help you get started with the library. It’s perfect if you’re new and want to explore our services before upgrading to a full membership.

What’s included
  • Valid for one month
  • Access to library programs
  • Use of online collections

To continue using the library, visit us to upgrade your membership. We recommend doing this before the month ends.

Identification requirements

Identification is required at time of upgrade. Please ask us for alternative options if required.

Resident Membership

Who can join

People who live permanently in the Mackay Regional Council area can become Resident Members. You must show identification that confirms your current home address.

Borrowing limits

Resident Members can borrow up to 30 items at a time. Each item can be borrowed for two weeks.

Identification needed

You will need to show proof of your permanent residential address when you join. Accepted identification includes:

  • Driver’s licence
  • Rates notice
  • Rental lease agreement
  • Recent phone or electricity bill
  • Pension or Health Care Card

Please ask us for alternative options if required. We can help you if you do not have these documents.

Non-Resident Membership

Who can join

Anyone who lives in Queensland can become a member of Mackay Regional Council Libraries. You must show proof of your current residential address when you join.

Borrowing limits

Non‑resident members can borrow up to 10 items at a time. Each item can be borrowed for two weeks. Some services may have extra conditions.

Identification needed

You will need to show a document that confirms your home address. This helps us set up your membership correctly.

Educator Membership

Who can apply

Educators may qualify for an Educator Membership, which is designed to support teaching and learning needs.

What this membership offers

This membership provides extra borrowing rights and access to a wide range of library materials that can be used as classroom resources. It helps educators find books, digital items, and other materials to support their students.

Why it matters

The aim is to give educators more flexibility and better access to resources that enrich learning.

Home Library Membership

Who can use this service

This service is available to residents and carers who cannot visit the library because of age, a physical disability, or illness. It supports people with either short‑term or long‑term needs.

How the service works

We select items based on the member’s interests and requests. These items are then delivered by Library Volunteers.

Getting more information

We can explain how the service works and help you decide if it meets your needs.

Request Home Library Service