A young woman studies at a table at the McCormick Branch while staff shelve books in the background.

Students

Welcome students! Discover all that the library has to offer you by getting a FREE library card and enjoy access to bookable study spaces, 3D printing services, online resources, exciting programs and more.

Sign Up for a Library Card

Signing up for a WPL card is free and easy! With your library card you can access premium resources like LinkedIn Learning, Simply Analytics and Gale Courses. We have so much available to help you on your journey through school.

How to Get a Card

  • Sign Up In Person

    To sign up for a library card in person:

    1. Visit any WPL location.
    2. Show us your current student card with proof of your local address or your permanent address if you live on campus or commute from outside of Waterloo Region.
    3. That’s it! You will receive a physical library card that will be valid for one year, and will need to be renewed after this time.
  • Sign Up Online

    To sign up for a library card online:

    1. Visit our Membership page.
    2. Click the Register Online button.
    3. Fill in the registration form and click Submit.
    4. You will receive a barcode for a temporary digital library card that will be valid for 90 days.
    5. After 90 days, your card will need to be renewed in person at any WPL location and you will receive a regular (i.e. physical) library card that will be valid for one year and will need to be renewed annually.

FAQs

Exam Care Kits

We understand that exam season can be tough. That’s why, during exam season, we provide Exam Care Kits to students studying in our library spaces. Just ask our staff for a kit and treat yourself to some goodies!

Kits are only available during exam season – please keep an eye on our social media accounts and at our library locations for when kits become available.

A staff person holds a bowl full of Exam Care Kits for students

Online Resources

Discover a world of online entertainment and learning, with a wide range of eBooks, movies, TV shows, language learning resources, educational tools and more.
Research & Articles

Gale Power Search

Explore and access reliable information across dozens of Gale research databases with Power Search. Use Topic Finder to find related ideas for any search, or the Subject Guide to break down your query. Results from magazines, peer reviewed journals, videos and newspapers are available.

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Business and Careers

LinkedIn Learning

Unlock a world of knowledge with LinkedIn Learning. Learn a little or a lot about creative pursuits like how to play guitar, or technical skills like SQL or Python coding. With over 6,000 videos and learning pathways taught by industry experts, there’s something for everyone.

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Business and Careers

O’Reilly Media

O’Reilly media offers resources for computer programmers, business professionals, makers and gamers. Browse the high-end tech eBooks, eAudiobooks, and learning pathways designed for professionals, or those beginning to learn STEM.

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Business and Careers

Gale Courses

What do you dream of learning? Gale Courses offers hundreds of instructor-led courses on everything from photography, to computer skills, accounting, and ESL courses, with certificates available upon completion.

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Research & Articles

Gale Literature Resource Centre

This comprehensive online resource offers a rich collection of critical analyses, author biographies, reviews, and multimedia content, providing an immersive experience for literature enthusiasts and academic researchers alike.

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Business and Careers

Career Cruising

An online career guidance and planning tool for people of all ages. Career Cruising is a dynamic platform designed to help you navigate your professional path with insightful assessments, comprehensive resources, and tailored guidance.

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eLearning

Transparent Language

Learn a new language with options for adults and kids, conversational learning, and full fluency pathways. Accessible online or through a convenient app.

Mobile Apps

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eReading and Streaming

Kanopy

Enjoy Hollywood Blockbusters, Documentaries, and Kids content on your smart TV or device – streaming made simple. Explore multilingual options for a diverse and inclusive viewing experience. Available as an app for smart TVs and devices.

Mobile Apps

Use Now
eReading and Streaming

CBC Corner

Enjoy your favourite CBC and Radio-Canada content in one place. Featuring a diverse range of TV and radio programs, news, podcasts and more, with fresh additions daily for an ever-enriching experience

English Français
eReading and Streaming

downloadLibrary & Libby

Browse and borrow from our extensive collection of eBooks, eAudiobooks and eMagazines through downloadLibrary. Access on your computer via downloadLibrary, or use the Libby app for easy reading on your smart devices.

Setting Up the Libby App (PDF)
Reading on a Web Browser or eReader (PDF)

Use Now Get the App
eLearning

Road to IELTS Academic

Road to IELTS Academic guides students in building essential skills for success in the IELTS exam, covering vocabulary, reading, writing, listening, and speaking through simple, effective exercises.

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Services

A teenager uses a study carrel at the Main Library to read

Study Rooms & Spaces

Whether you prefer quiet spots for focused study, collaborative areas for group projects, or bookable study rooms for team work, we've got you covered with a variety of spaces tailored to your study style and needs.
A young woman is talking into a microphone in the Digispace while another woman records the session

Digispace: Recording Studio

Check out our high-end recording studio! It's free to use and is equipped with the latest technology.
2 young customers checking out the 3D printers at the Eastside Branch

3D Printing

Unlock your creativity and bring your designs to life with our 3D printing service.
The Maker Bar at the Eastside Branch with the laminator, button makers and Cricut sitting on the counter.

Maker Bar

Our Maker Bar offers a range of creative tools including a laminator, button makers and the versatile Cricut Maker, designed to empower your crafting and DIY projects with precision and ease.

Programs & Events

Explore a variety of programs and events, from author talks and maker sessions to fun group challenges and trivia. You’re sure to find something you’ll enjoy.

View Our Events Calendar

Cool Things to Borrow

Who said the library was just about books? From ice skates and board games to puzzles and park passes, there is so much more you can borrow with your library card.

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