How to Get a Spanish Library Card in Madrid (From an Aux Who Has One)

As someone who's an avid reader, getting a library card in Madrid was definitely on my to-do list as an aux. I wanted to have access to as many Spanish books as possible, since I knew that reading in Spanish was essential if I wanted to acquire the language. In fact, besides acquiring the language, I also wanted to have access to their English book catalogue in case I needed some extra books to do storytime with Infantil at my placement school or tutor young children in English.

However, when it came to understanding the public library system in Madrid, I had to learn everything on my own. There wasn't really anyone I could go to for guidance on this, so I thought making this post would make things slightly easier for you. So, if you're interested in having access to Madrid's public libraries and borrowing books in English and Spanish, keep reading! This post alone highlights everything you need to know about getting a Spanish library card in Madrid and what you can do with it.

Can Auxes Get a Library Card in Madrid?

Yes, auxes are eligible to receive a library card in Madrid even though we are non-EU residents in Spain.

What Is the Public Library System in Madrid?

The Public Library System in Madrid is an extensive network of public libraries that includes:

• Community of Madrid libraries: these are libraries that are in the province of Madrid, and they are located in the city center
  • Biblioteca Pública Eugenio Trías (El Retiro)
  • Biblioteca Pública Luis Rosales (Tetuán)
• Municipal (city-run) libraries: these are libraries that are managed by smaller cities in the province of Madrid
  • Biblioteca Pública Municipal Pío Baroj
  • Biblioteca Pública Municipal La Galatea

However, you're not limited to just one library in Madrid. Having a Spanish library card gives you access to ALL the libraries in the province.

What You Need to Get a Spanish Library Card

Here are the following items you will need to get a Spanish library card in Madrid:

• TIE (resident permit in Spain)
• Passport
• Volante (this is a document you get when you register your address with the Spanish government)
• Application form (this will be provided by the library when you show up in person to apply)

Step-by-Step: How to Get a Library Card in Madrid

1. Find a public library near you to go to in person to apply for a library card. (I would personally recommend applying for one at a library outside of the city center since they're less crowded and busy.)
2. Make sure to bring all the documents listed in this post with you. (You may or may not need them all, but it's good to bring everything just in case.)
3. Fill out the application they provide to you in the library. (If there's a strong language barrier between you and the librarian, use a translator.)
4. Get your library card. (You will usually get your library card on the same day.)

Here's what your library card will look like once you have it:

Best Libraries in Madrid for Auxes

Here are the best libraries in Madrid for Auxes:

• Biblioteca Pública Eugenio Trías (Retiro)
  • This is a great library to visit if you're already planning on spending the day in Retiro Park!
• Biblioteca María Zambrano 
  • This library has great workspaces!
• Local neighborhood libraries 
  • Although these libraries may not be in the city center, they are usually less crowded and busy which is perfect if you're looking for a quiet place to study!

Overall, the best library for any aux is the one that's closest to your apartment.

How Long Does a Spanish Library Card in Madrid Last?

A Spanish library card in Madrid is valid for several years. The only thing you'll need to update is your information if you, for example, renew your TIE.

What Exactly Can You Do With a Spanish Library Card in Madrid

Here's what you can do with a Spanish library card in Madrid:

• Borrow books in English and Spanish
  • This is great if you're interested in tutoring young children in English or if you work with Infantil.
• Book study rooms
  • This is great if you need a quiet place to study Spanish
• Attend cultural events and workshops
  • This is great if you're looking for something to do in the city center
• Access digital resources and books on eBiblio
  • This is great if you prefer to read books electronically, like me!
• Get books on the Bibliometro
  • This is great if you're looking to borrow a book as you're commuting in the city center.
• Use the Bibliobus
  • This is a great option if your local library is too far away from you.

eBiblio Madrid: Digital Library Access

eBiblio is Spain's digital library platform, kind of like how the U.S. has Libby.

With eBiblio, you'll be able to access:

• eBooks 
• Audiobooks
• Magazines
• Spanish language learning resources

Here's also a video of what the app will look like on your phone:

Feel free to use the app to immerse yourself in as much Spanish as you can from the comfort of your phone!

Why Every Aux in Madrid Should Get a Library Card

Every aux in Madrid should get a library card because it will help you feel more settled as you make Madrid your new home. In fact, even if you're not looking to read any books in Spanish. Why not take advantage of the library card to book a study room for yourself? Or why not use a Spanish library card to borrow some DVDs? Ultimately, the benefits of a Spanish library card in Madrid are endless.

So, if you're considering getting a Spanish library card in Madrid, this is your sign to get one. :)