Mid-Columbia Libraries (MCL) supports free and open access to public libraries and encourages all to use the programs, services, and facilities of the library system.
Individuals residing in the following areas are served by MCL and are entitled to full use of all facilities, services and materials of MCL at no charge.
- Unincorporated areas of Benton and Franklin Counties
- City of Kennewick
- City of West Richland
- City of Prosser
- City of Benton City
- City of Pasco
- City of Mesa
- City of Basin City
- City of Connell
- City of Kahlotus
- Adams County Rural Library District #1
Current students and instructors of kindergarten through 12th grade (K-12) schools and certified institutions of higher learning located in areas served by MCL are entitled to full use of all facilities, services and materials of MCL at all MCL branches at no charge. Proof of current enrollment as a student or employment as an instructor is required, i.e. current ASB card, pay stub, professional ID showing institution and dates of validity. This policy shall also apply to current students and instructors of K-12 schools and certified institutions of higher learning located in areas not served by MCL, but within the boundaries of school districts served by MCL. For clarity, this shall include the following schools: Amon Creek Elementary School.
Individuals who own property in the areas served by MCL are entitled to full use of all facilities, services and materials of MCL at no charge at all MCL branches. All family members of the property owner, living at his or her same address, are entitled to an MCL library card. Proof of property ownership will be required.
Individuals who rent facilities/property in areas served by MCL are entitled to full use of all facilities, services, and materials of MCL at no charge at all MCL branches. All family members of the renter, living at his or her same address, are entitled to an MCL library card. Proof of facility/property rental will be required.
Individuals who live in areas served by MCL in temporary housing, or otherwise without a fixed address, are entitled to use of all facilities, services, and materials of MCL at no charge at all MCL branches. Proof of identity will be required.
Individuals who live in or own property in areas served by libraries which have an existing reciprocal borrowing agreement with MCL are entitled to a MCL library card. Specific restrictions for use are outlined in each reciprocal borrowing agreement.
Volunteers who consistently contribute 10 hours a month, or more, to the library system will be granted full library privileges for the duration of their volunteer tenure.
Households in areas not served by the MCL may become members of MCL by paying a yearly non-resident fee calculated annually based upon the average cost each household in the district is paying in property taxes for library services.
(11/19/2024; 01/17/2023; 07/21/2020; 04/16/2019; 09/16/2014; 05/21/2013; 09/20/2010; 10/16/2006; Adopted 05/18/1998)