The Steger-South Chicago Heights Public Library District covers most of Steger, all of South Chicago Heights, and a small area of Sauk Village. To see which library district your home is in, call us or click here to search for your address. It will also be on your voter registration card.

Your library card lets you:

• check out books, movies, CDs, video games, and other items here and at other area libraries for free.

• get items sent from other libraries to pick up for free.

• access free ebooks, audiobooks, movies, and music downloads.

• get free or discounted passes to Chicagoland attractions.

What do I need to get a library card?

If your photo ID has your current Steger or South Chicago Heights address, fill out the application above and send us a photo or scan of your ID. You can also apply in person at the library by bringing in your ID.

Acceptable IDs: 

• valid drivers license

• state ID

• military ID

• firearm owner's identification (FOID)

• passports or consular cards (such as a matrícula consular)

Acceptable proofs of residency:

If your photo ID does not have your current/correct address on it, you will need to show two (2) of the following items.

• current utility bill (electric, water, gas)

• voter's registration card

• tax bill

• mortgage statement

• bank statement

• USPS change of address confirmation

• we do not accept leases and rental agreements.

Based on our borrowing agreement with other area libraries, if you have had a card at another area library, all fines must be paid before we are able to issue a new one. You can pay them here. 

There is a $3 replacement fee for lost SSCHPL cards that will be added to your account and can be paid at your convenience by cash, check, or credit card.

Borrowing Limits

• DVDs: Five (5) per card

• CDs & Books: Limit of 30 total items on card.

Placing Holds or Renewing Items

• from the catalog

• on the SWAN Libraries app

• ask a staff member to place the hold for you in person, on the phone, or by email.

Loan periods & fine schedules

• books/magazines/CDs/ebooks: 3 weeks, no fines if overdue

• new release DVDs, BluRays, TV series, and video games: 3 days, $1/day if overdue

• DVDs, BluRays, TV series, and video games (no longer new): 1 week, $1/day if overdue

• TV series (no longer new): 2 weeks, $1/day if overdue

• items received via interlibrary loan: dependant on the policy of the lending library