The Harris County Public Library announced in a Sept. 12 news release it launched an OverDrive Instant Digital Card program in mid-September. The program will allow county residents to instantly sign up for a digital library card through any smartphone or computer.

With the digital card, residents within HCPL’s service area can borrow e-books, audiobooks and digital magazines using only their cell phone number. Patrons must still visit an HCPL branch library to receive a full library card to use for access to physical reading materials.

The Katy area is home to two HCPL branches. The Katy Branch Library is located at 5414 Franz Road, Katy. 281-391-3509. The Maud Smith Marks Branch Library is located at 1815 Westgreen Blvd., Katy, 832-927-7860. https://hcpl.overdrive.com