Education
Public libraries: library cards
Starting January 1, 2028, public libraries cannot require parents or guardians to appear in person before issuing library cards to California residents age 16 or 17.
The law makes it easier for older teens to obtain library cards while allowing libraries to retain a consent or signature requirement for nonemancipated minors.
What the law does
- Bars public libraries from requiring a parent or guardian to be present when issuing a card to a California resident who is 16 or 17.
- Allows libraries to require a parent’s or guardian’s consent or signature, except from an emancipated minor.
- Provides for state reimbursement if the Commission on State Mandates finds the requirement creates reimbursable state-mandated costs.
Who it affects
- California residents who are 16 or 17 years old.
- Parents and guardians of nonemancipated 16- and 17-year-olds.
- Public libraries.