Get a Library Card

Any resident of Ankeny, Unincorporated Polk County, or a community participating in Iowa's Open Access Program may obtain an Ankeny Kirkendall Public Library card free of charge. Some library services may be dependent on your residency status. 

Apply online or in person. To get your card, you will need to provide the following information at the library:

• 0–11 years old: Parent or guardian must be present and sign the application.
• 12–17 years old: Teen must provide photo ID, such as a driver's license or school ID, and list a parent's or guardian's name. Parent or guardian can also fill out the form in lieu of the teen.
• 18+ years old: Must provide photo ID with current address, such as an updated driver's license, or photo ID and proof of current address, such as a piece of mail, online lease agreement, etc.

Basic cards

Basic cards are issued for 3 years; there is no fee for renewal. You may check out up to 100 items per card.

Temporary cards

Temporary cards are available for those who do not have photo ID and/or proof of current address available during registration. These cards are valid for 3 months and may be used to borrow 3 items at a time, excluding equipment. Once a photo ID or current address is provided, your account will be changed to a Basic card.

Replacement cards

If you lose your card and would like a replacement, there is a $1 replacement fee. Report lost cards immediately. Patrons are responsible for all items checked out on their account.

Rural residents

If you live in Crocker Township, Elkhart Township, or Washington Township in rural Polk County, the Ankeny Kirkendall Public Library is your "home library." This means you will have access to all physical and digital resources, including Adventure Pass, Overdrive (Libby), and Hoopla. If you live in any other township, you will only have access to the library's physical materials.

For residents living inside the city limits of Elkhart: The City of Elkhart contracts with Cambridge Memorial Library for library services, including Overdrive (Libby). Please contact Cambridge Memorial Library if you are interested in borrowing eBooks and eAudiobooks.

Click here to determine your home library for digital services.

• Enter your address. 
• Click the colored area around the dot that appears at your address.
• Whichever town shows as your service area is the library you will need to use for digital services.

You can get more information about the Polk County Home Library program here.

Questions about getting a card or moving your Overdrive/Libby reading history from one card to another? Call us at 515-965-6460 opt. 3 for the Circulation desk, or email library@ankenyiowa.gov.