There is nothing more empowering than getting your own library card. It gives you access to technology, resources, and services to pursue your passions and dreams. That’s why we are so excited that Library Card Sign-Up Month is here again! The American Library Association (ALA) and National Commission on Libraries and Information Science (NCLIS) teamed up in 1987 for the very first Library Card Sign-Up Month, “a national campaign to emphasize the importance of library cards to a child’s education and to combat illiteracy.” Visit the American Library Association Archives blog to read more about the campaign’s history.
Share the following graphic and information from ALA with your patrons, family, and friends to promote this special event:
Marley Dias, author, executive producer, and founder of #1000BlackGirlBooks, is joining the American Library Association and libraries nationwide in promoting the power of a library card this September. #1000BlackGirlBooks is an international movement to collect and donate children’s books that feature Black girls as the lead character. Dias launched the #1000BlackGirlBooks drive in November of 2015 with the help of GrassROOTS Community Foundation. The goal was to collect 1,000 books by February 2016 and Dias has collected over 13,000 books to-date. Dias’ #1000BlackGirlBooks resources guide can found on the GrassROOTS Community Foundation website.
As honorary chair, Dias wants to remind the public that signing up for a library card provides access to technology, multimedia content and educational programming that transforms lives and strengthens communities. “A library card provides opportunity for discovery and access to a rich and diverse world. It empowers you to make change and experience new stories,” said Dias.
Visit your library online or in-person to see what’s new and take part in the celebration. Libraries across the country are participating.
Do you have friends who don’t have library cards? Invite them to sign up during September and to check-out GoWYLD.net for instant access to e-Books, e-Audiobooks, magazines, language learning, and more resources for library card holders of all ages.