Washington residents now need only one card to gain access to the city's libraries, recreational facilities and schools. The One Card will be a photo identification card for adults and children to replace other forms of ID, such as student IDs and library cards.

Initially, the One Card will be used at the city's libraries and recreation centers, and will eventually be considered a valid ID for students and an access card for city buildings and programs. "We all know the frustration of fishing in our wallets and purses for a multitude of cards," Washington Mayor Adrian Fenty said in a statement. "We want our residents to enjoy and benefit from our libraries, our recreation centers, our programs and, of course, our schools."

Residents who lose their One Card can get a replacement at any city facility. Consolidating ID cards also is expected to lead to long-term savings for the city.

More information on the One Card is available from the District of Columbia's Office of the Chief Technology Officer at http://newsroom.dc.gov/show.aspx/agency/octo/section/2/release/13338.