Getting a library card is much easier than it looks. The whole process takes about 10 minutes, it's completely free, and once you have it, you can start borrowing books right away. Including English ones.

Here's exactly how to do it.

This guide is based on my experience at the Shibuya Central Library. Some details may be slightly different depending on the library or ward, but the overall process is very similar across Tokyo.

Who can get a library card?

You can register if you live, work, or study in Tokyo. So even if you don't live in Shibuya, you can still use libraries there.

What you need to bring

If you live in Tokyo, just bring an ID that shows your name and address, a residence card or driver's license works fine.

If you live outside Tokyo but work or study here, bring your ID plus something that shows your workplace or school, like a work ID or student card.

One thing to note: passports are not accepted.

How to register

• At the library — the easiest option

Go to the front desk and say:

としょかんカードを つくりたいです

(toshokan kaado o tsukuritai desu) or just show your phone with this written on it. It means "I would like to make a library card."

They'll give you a short form to fill out with your name, address, and a few basic details. After that, your card is ready on the spot. It usually takes just a few minutes.

• Online via LINE

You can also register through the library's LINE account using your My Number card or facial recognition. You can then search and reserve books online, though you may still need to confirm your identity the first time you visit in person.

How borrowing works

Once you have your card, you can borrow up to 30 books or magazines and up to 10 CDs, for two weeks at a time.

To borrow, just take your books and your card to the counter, or use the self-checkout machine if there is one.

Returning books

If you borrowed from a Shibuya library, you can return to any other Shibuya library, which is really convenient. Just note that returns are limited to libraries within the same ward, so you can't return them to a library in a different area of Tokyo.

When the library is closed, there's usually a book return box outside. CDs need to be returned at the counter though.

Can you extend the loan?

Yes — once, for another two weeks, as long as nobody else has reserved the book. You can do it online or at the library.

That's it! pretty easy, right? Having a library card is the easy part. The next question is which library is actually worth the trip if you're looking for English books, because not every library has the same selection.

That's exactly what this blog is for. I find books and I share them here with you. Here's a post you can start with: [5 Popular English Books You Can Find in Shibuya Central Library].

And if you want a monthly list of English books found across Tokyo's libraries sent straight to your inbox, you can subscribe to The English Shelf below. Free, once a month, no spam.