If you live in Cary, your Wake County Public Libraries card is one of the best free memberships in town. It includes premium online courses, a deep e-book and audiobook catalog, research tools, all in addition to letting you check out books at the local library. Here’s how to get a card and what you can access the minute you do.
How to get a Wake County library card
- Who qualifies: Wake County residents and property owners can get a card for free; non-residents can purchase one for $25/year
- Where to apply: Visit any Wake County Public Libraries branch or start online, then finalize in person with ID. After you sign up, you can immediately use most digital resources.
- What to bring: A photo ID with your current address, or a photo ID plus proof of address (lease, bill, etc.).
Highlight benefits (what your card unlocks)
1) 25,000+ online courses with Udemy (free)
Wake County offers Gale Presents: Udemy: unlimited access to professional courses in tech, business, design, marketing, language learning, and more. It’s included with your library card at no cost.
How to access: Visit https://link.gale.com/apps/, click on Public Library, Search for Wake County Public Library (or just use your location), use your library card number/pin, and finally create an account or login with Google/social and you now have access to all of the Udemy courses.
If you want to use this on your phone, you need to download the Udemy Business app (not the normal Udemy app) and login from there.
2) Libby/OverDrive e-books, audiobooks, and magazines
Browse and borrow thousands of titles (including digital magazines) through Libby/OverDrive on your phone, tablet, or e-reader using your Wake County credentials.
3) NC LIVE statewide databases & e-resources
Your card also unlocks NC LIVE, North Carolina’s statewide collection of research databases, newspapers, genealogy tools, learning platforms, and additional digital media. If you ever need a quick pass, the State Library offers a short-term option, but your local card keeps access going long-term.
Quick links (start here)
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