Become a member
Table of contents
The KB (National Library) collects everything that has been published in or about the Netherlands, whether in digital or physical format. As a member of the KB you can request (also online) these books and magazines and view them in the reading rooms. You also get access to various online resources and digital publications, and you can use the PCs, printers and scanners.You have the option to apply for membership online or a the reception desk in the foyer/entrance hall.
Membership information
- Anyone who is 17 years of age or older and has the Dutch nationality can become a member of the KB.
- You do not have a Dutch passport, but you do have a valid proof of address in the Netherlands? Then you can also become a member.
- KB membership costs a maximum of €15 per year.
- Membership lasts for 1 year and you can choose whether to renew at the end of the term.
- Read more about our rules in the terms of use of the KB.
Become a member
Membership costs
KB membership costs €15 for 1 year. In some cases, you may be eligible for a discount on your membership.
Your membership will stop after 1 year, and payment for renewal will not automatically be debited from your account. However, we will send you an email when your membership is about to lapse. You can then renew your membership online.
Free reading room pass
If you want to visit the KB solely for study purposes, you can request a free reading room pass at the reception desk when you visit the KB (online application is not possible). You can use this pass to enter the reading room but not to request material from the collection or use the computers in the reading room.
Institution card
Does your institution want access to the KB? An institution pass gives employees access to our physical collection. This applies to one employee at a time. The institution pass does not provide access to the digital files that the KB offers, due to licence restrictions. Just like a normal membership, it costs €15 for 1 year. Interested? Send a message with the name of the institution, the address, the city and the contact person to @email.
Access to digital files
The online services with a lock are for private use only, as agreed in the licence agreements.
Do you live in the Netherlands? Then you have access to all digital files, regardless your nationality. (For holders of a foreign nationality, address ID is necessary.) Do you live abroad and do you have the Dutch nationality? Then you also have access to all digital files
Join online
Fill in the registration form to join online. Become a member online in 8 steps.
Go to the registration form
Go to inschrijven.kb.nl.
Enter your email address
Enter your email address. Then click on 'continue'.
Fill in your details
We need this information because your membership will be in your name and is personal to you. Click on 'next step'.
Create a password
You need an account to request books, use the computers in the KB and to update your data. Click on 'next step'.
Check the summary
Check the summary of the information you have entered so far. Is something incorrect? Then go back by clicking on 'previous step'. Is everything correct? Then click on 'next step'.
Choose your membership
Choose the type of membership you want. You can only get a discount if you meet certain requirements. Then click on 'next step'.
- Are you a student in secondary education? After this step you will receive an email with further instructions for you to follow. You can skip steps 7 and 8 below.
- Are you a student in higher education? Please log in to InAcademia with your school account. You can skip step 7 below.
Verify identity
Verify your identity by logging in with iDIN. At this point you won’t have to pay yet. Read more about how iDIN works on idin.nl/en. You can also email a copy of your ID to the KB at @email. Please note that the registration process takes longer via email. Always send a secure copy, which can be done using the government’s KopieID app. After having checked your data the copy will be deleted. Then click on 'next step'.
Pay for your membership
You can pay with iDeal, Mastercard, Visa or a one-time direct debit (SEPA Direct Debit).
After your online registration
After the last step, you will receive a confirmation email with your registration number. If you have paid with iDeal, Mastercard or Visa, you can immediately start using our digital services with your registration number. Log in using your registration number and the password you created during registration.
You will receive your membership card (also called library card) on your first visit to the KB. Your card number will replace your registration number from that moment on. You will then use your card number to log in online.
If you have any questions or require further clarification, please contact us.
Sign up for membership at the reception desk
You can use one of our registration computers at the KB reception desk to sign up for membership. Make sure you have your ID with you so that we can verify your identity. Want to use one of the discount options? Remember to bring the appropriate documents with you, such as your school pass, student card or Ooievaarspas.
After presenting the documents you will receive your membership card at the reception counter. You can then use the number on your card to also log in to our online digital services.
If you have any questions or experience difficulties when registering, our desk staff will be happy to assist you.
