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In Ohio, many (maybe all?) libraries allow you to apply online for a virtual library card that can be used to check out ebooks/audiobooks/etc. A librarian reviews the application and approves or denies it within a day or so, and you get an email either way. No need to ever visit a library in person.

I'm not 100% sure that this was in place before COVID-19, but I think it was.

To check out physical books, you have to visit a library in person and upgrade the virtual library card to a physical library card.



The Boston Public Library has done virtual cards for years as well, and a BPL card is available online for any Massachusetts resident.


Yea, I forgot to mention it, but it's the same way for all of the major library systems in Ohio as well. My local library is connected to Dayton's system, but I also have virtual cards for Cleveland, Columbus, and Cincinnati. It makes finding audio books much easier.




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