Online applications for library cards

Question for libraries that accept online applications for library cards:

When people apply online for a library card, how do they receive their card and/or barcode? Are they given  temporary access until they visit the library to pick up their card? Do you send cards out by mail? How do you handle the people who never come in to pick up their cards? 

Any input would be much appreciated. Thank you in advance. 

Abigail Brady, Head of Adult Services
Summit Free Public Library 
75 Maple Street, Summit, NJ 07901
908-273-0350, ext. 821
abrady [at] summitlibrary.org

Abigail,

 

Our ILS, Polaris, will generate a temporary barcode and you can limit the usage of the account (we don't).   This "card" can be used for up to six months.  During that time they are to come in and show ID, proof of residency and sign the registration form.  If they do not come within that time frame we delete the account.  Of course in 2020 we had a very large number of self registered patrons that never came in but now we only have a couple of temp cards at any one time. 

Feel free to reach out with any other questions,

Dave