More than Books: Hillsborough County Library Cards Offer Access to Local Attractions

A Hillsborough County Public Library Cooperative (HCPLC) library card can do more than provide access to books, movies, and digital resources. It can also open the door to local museums, cultural attractions, and educational experiences through the Discovery Pass program.

The program gives eligible library cardholders an opportunity to explore participating attractions at no cost, making it easier for families, students, and residents to discover more of what Hillsborough County and the surrounding area has to offer.

How does the Discovery Pass work?

The Discovery Pass program uses an online reservation system that allows library cardholders to browse participating attractions and reserve a pass for a specific date.

Here's how to get started:

1. Get a library card: Residents must have an eligible adult HCPLC library card to reserve a Discovery Pass.
2. Browse participating attractions: Visit HCPLC.org/DiscoveryPass to see the available museums and attractions.
3. Reserve a pass: Select the attraction you want to visit, click "Book Now" and choose an available date within the next 30 days. Reservations are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
4. Bring your pass: Once the reservation is confirmed, the pass is delivered digitally through email. Visitors can present it on their phone or print it at home.
5. Enjoy your visit: Each pass provides one-time admission or a tour on the date specified in the reservation.

One Discovery Pass may be checked out per adult library card, per participating institution, each year. Passes are not renewable, and blackout dates or other restrictions may apply. Admission limits vary by attraction, so residents should review the venue's requirements before making a reservation.

An inside look at Arthenia L. Joyner University Area Community Library.

How to get a Hillsborough County library card

Don't have a library card? Signing up is easy.

Hillsborough County residents can receive a library card at no cost. Adults can apply online through the library's website or visit any HCPLC library location to register. To apply, residents must provide identification verifying their name, date of birth, and current Hillsborough County residential address.

Adults who apply online receive a temporary library card number valid for 30 days. Applicants will receive an email within 48 hours with instructions for obtaining a permanent card with full privileges. Library cards are also available at no cost to eligible nonresident property taxpayers, reciprocal borrowers, and Hillsborough County government and School District employees.

Visit HCPLC.com/GetACard to learn more about eligibility and the application process.

Where can residents use the Discovery Pass?

The Discovery Pass program features a variety of museums, cultural institutions, and attractions throughout the Tampa Bay area.

Participating locations include:

• Imagine Museum of Contemporary Glass Art: Explore contemporary glass artwork from artists around the world.
• Tampa Bay History Center: Discover more than 12,000 years of regional history through permanent and temporary exhibits.
• American Victory Ship and Museum: Tour nine decks aboard a historic World War II ship.
• Florida Museum of Photographic Arts: View historic and contemporary photography from nationally and internationally recognized artists.
• Tampa Museum of Art: Experience ancient, modern, and contemporary art, including one of the Southeast's largest collections of Greek and Roman artifacts.
• Florida Holocaust Museum: Learn more about the Holocaust and its history.
• Glazer Children's Museum: Children can explore interactive exhibits and hands-on learning experiences.
• Henry B. Plant Museum: Explore original artifacts from Tampa's late Victorian era and the historic Tampa Bay Hotel.
• The Florida Aquarium: Discover aquatic and terrestrial animals while learning about conservation. Unlike the other attractions, Aquarium passes must be borrowed in person at select HCPLC library locations and used within seven days.

Admission limits and availability vary by attraction. Residents should check the Discovery Pass website for current information, restrictions, and reservation availability before planning a visit.

Check out everything the Hillsborough County Public Library Cooperative has to offer.

Discover more with your library card

From exploring local history and art to experiencing a historic ship or discovering marine life, the Discovery Pass program gives residents another way to take advantage of the educational and cultural opportunities available throughout Hillsborough County and the Tampa Bay area.

To explore participating attractions, check availability, or reserve a pass, visit HCPLC.org/DiscoveryPass.

Library Services programs and services are funded in part by Hillsborough County property tax dollars.