Anyone possessing a valid University ID card may have it validated to borrow books from the University of Rhode Island's University Libraries.  Materials from any of the other Rhode Island academic and public libraries must be borrowed through Interlibrary Loan.

Rhode Island residents 18 years of age or older, with proof of residency, may apply for a Rhode Island Resident Card at the Circulation Desk.  Please be aware that Rhode Island Resident Card obtained at URI cannot be used at either CCRI or RIC. 

Borrowers must have their University ID with them in order to check out library materials.

All persons who have outstanding library bills will be denied borrowing privileges.

There are three ways to activate or update the information on your library card:

• In person
• By phone
• Online

In person - Simply stop by the main service desk at whichever URI Library you most frequent (Kingston or Narragansett) and ask a member of the staff to update the information on your card.

By phone - If you cannot access online materials from off-campus, you should first call the main service desk of whichever URI University Library you most frequent.  Explain your situation and read them the 14 digit number located beneath the barcode (beginning with 21222).  More often than not, the access problem is due to an issue with the library card.  If the card is expired or requires updated information, the staff person will either renew the card or update your library record.

It is recommended that you call the library you most frequent when involving such issues as described above.  The service desk phone numbers are: 

• Kingston: (401) 874-2672
• Pell: (401) 874-6161

Online - This online application can be used by any University of Rhode Island student, faculty or staff - whether you are a new patron wanting to activate your URI ID as a library card or needing to update information on your patron record.

The application only applies to 

• students currently enrolled at URI
• URI staff and faculty (including adjunct faculty)
• Emeritus Faculty

Please, you must allow at least two days for your application to be processed.

The link to the online application can be accessed via this link:

Borrowers are responsible for returning or renewing all items charged out on their cards.

Borrowers are responsible for notifying the Library of any changes in contact information, including address, telephone number and e-mail.

Robert L. Carothers Library & Learning Commons

Call Us
(During Regular Hours)
(401) 874-2672

Email Us
(After Regular Hours)
librarycirc-group@uri.edu
(Please allow 1-2 business days for a response)