As part of Unique’s commitment to create tools that make libraries the best that they can be, we developed RenewIQ, an automatic registration and renewal platform for libraries. It allows patrons to register for cards online and removes the need for manual address verifications for card registrations and renewals. It harnesses technology to make patron and staff experiences at the library even better than before, and here’s how registration works:
A Smarter Way to Register Online
Automatic Patron Registration is at the heart of RenewIQ. It allows residents in your library’s service area to quickly and safely register for new cards online, saving them a trip into the library to verify their address with a librarian. Here’s how our verification works: 
Once approved, new patrons can immediately access the library’s digital services, including:
- Ebooks and audiobooks through popular platforms like Libby or Hoopla
- Streaming movies and music for instant entertainment
- Online learning platforms, including language apps, test prep tools, and career development courses
- Research databases, genealogy archives, and local history collections
- Digital newspapers and magazines for readers of all interests
This instant access transforms new registrations into active users right away, turning interested residents into patrons.
Benefits for Library Staff & Operations
Staff time is one of the most precious resources in any library, and RenewIQ’s new patron registration helps save it at every step.
- Fewer desk interruptions: Patrons can register from anywhere—on their own time—freeing up front desk staff for other interactions.
- Efficient reviews: The manual review queue offers a clear and easy way to approve or decline flagged registrations based on your policies.
- Outreach-ready: With portable kiosks or tablets, staff can register patrons at outreach events, schools, or community festivals—no paper forms or later data entry required.
Libraries also benefit from real-time data collection and insights into who is registering, where they’re coming from, and how outreach efforts are working.
Benefits for Patrons
From the patron’s perspective, the process is easy, fast, and flexible. Whether they’re registering from home, a coffee shop, or the back of a bookmobile, they can complete the process in minutes.
- Instant access: Approved patrons can immediately dive into digital collections—no waiting period, no extra steps.
- Modern experience: Today’s users expect convenience and self-service—and this feature delivers. It keeps your library relevant and accessible when it needs it most.
- Broader access: For patrons in reciprocal areas who may not have known they were eligible, RenewIQ helps remove barriers to joining and participating in your library community.
Virtual registration also opens new doors for those who can’t easily visit a physical branch—like caregivers, busy students, seniors, or people with transportation limitations.
The Bottom Line: A Library Without Walls
RenewIQ’s new patron registration feature is more than just a tool—it’s an upgrade to how your library meets, welcomes, and serves its community. With secure verification, reciprocal geography support, instant digital access, and flexible approval workflows, this addition helps libraries grow their patron base, while serving the existing members better, too.
Explore RenewIQ
Want to see how it works or explore how it fits into your current setup? Reach out to our team for a walkthrough or demo.