r/Library • u/Flat-Concern-2662 • 7d ago
Library Assistance Am I screwed?
The Philly library has free library cards for PA residents (which I am). But when I tried to apply online I got an email saying my information couldn't be verified and I needed to visit in person. I emailed back letting them know I'm not able to visit in person and asking if there was any alternatives and this was the response.
I tried a few different things to make it work, spelling my street address with blvd and boulevard for example, but nothing worked. I haven't moved, I'm certain all the information is accurate and I've tried multiple times. Is there anything else I can do or am I just screwed? Does anyone know what service they use to verify the information so I can try to figure out what information is incorrect.
I also might be stupid but I'm not exactly sure what the third paragraph is trying to say. I tried leaving the middle name field blank and putting my middle name alongside my first name but that didn't work either.
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u/roseimelda 7d ago
It looks like this would be a good way to contact them, without having to wait on hold
https://libwww.freelibrary.org/contact/ .
I think when I applied online,I emailed the Library a copy of a recent utility bill. This would match the address recorded by USPS, with zip+4 and their coding for your address such as Ave v. Avenue.
I live upstate, so having access to the Library’s resources is such a gift.
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u/chickadee-stitchery 7d ago
The third paragraph is saying if your name is John Paul Smith, you may need to enter John Paul or John P in the first name field.
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u/Substantial_Life4773 7d ago
It’s wild that they can’t do it via email with an image of your drivers license.
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u/Which-Bit6563 7d ago
Hey, I work at FLP but not in a role that regularly makes cards. We only switched to this verification system a few months ago and are still working out the kinks. This is happening to many people and is a known issue internally, but I don't think all staff have been sent any info about consistent fixes yet.
I think the third paragraph is saying to try putting your middle name or initial in the first name box in addition to your first name. So if your John Jacob Smith they want you to also try First Name: John Jacob and First Name: John J.
I will say that most of the language in this email is directly copied from the FAQ they sent out to staff when the new system debuted 🙃, so this was probably an autogenerated email and you may well have better luck if you talk to a real person via our Ask a Librarian service or by calling 1-833-TALK FLP.
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u/Flat-Concern-2662 6d ago
I got this response through the ask a librarian service, but I'll guess I'll call tomorrow
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u/babyyodaonline 7d ago
hmm maybe proof of residency with mail including your address and name? we accept that at our library, like a phone or utility bill. i will say though we often do it in person. but we also have something for patrons who are unable to come in due to serious hardships like health or disability. i would ask for things like that possibly.
also make sure to enter the full zip code, instead of just the typical 5 code. i noticed all of the online applications i work on have the full 9 or 10 digit code (forgot how much it was) and a few times i've done things online it asks for the full zip code.