5 Reasons Why You Should Have a Library Card
September is Library Card Sign-Up month! Since 1987, the library card-focused initiative marks the beginning of a new school year. During the month, the American Library Association (ALA) and libraries around the US unite in a national effort to encourage interest and drive up the number of library card owners.
During the school year, free educational resources from schools and public libraries will help parents, guardians, families and students of all ages save hundreds of dollars. The easiest way to access these free resources is to register for a library card!
A survey by the ALA estimates that currently, 66% of Americans own library cards, however, library workers are aiming to reach an ambitious 100%.
To celebrate this important educational initiative alongside our libraries, D-Tech has taken a look at the benefits of library cards and has compiled a list of the top five (in our opinion!).
5 Reasons Why You Should Have a Library Card
1. A library card helps you carry on learning at any age
When the world was forced to come to a stop in 2020, many people picked up new hobbies and had time to develop new skills. Now that the pandemic blues have passed, you can still continue to learn in a fun way with your library card.
Do you want to brush up on your Spanish? Or learning a new musical instrument? Look no further than your local library, with your library card you can access an unlimited catalog of free resources that can help you reach expert level in no time.
2. A library card could help you meet new people
Are you wondering how to make friends in a new town? Especially ones with similar interests? Or are you itching to discuss poetry, popular books, and films with like-minded enthusiastic people? Local librarians work day and night to bring amazing community clubs and initiatives to your library.
Do not be surprised if your local library has something for everybody. There are story times and STEM programs for babies and teens, Dungeons and Dragons campaigns run by enthusiastic librarians, classes on freezer-friendly meal prep for busy parents working 9-5, horror movie discussion groups, gardening clubs, ESL courses, Pride festivals, film festivals, author events and much more. You name it, and a library will be hosting it.
3. A library card allows to you access loads of resources for free
This may be a fairly obvious one, but holding a library card gets you access to free resources including books, films, and other media. And of course, libraries offer free Wi-Fi for all your studying or work needs when your home is not feeling like the most productive place.
Some libraries even have access to streaming services and museum passes, perfect for families during the holidays.
4. A library card means you can support the growth and evolution of libraries
In today’s society, libraries are easily overlooked as being institutions that operate on a simple loan-and-return model.
However as a new generation of patrons is visiting more frequently, library capabilities are becoming more advanced. Registering for a library card emphasises the need for libraries in our society and encourages further evolution and growth of library capabilities, which makes educational material more accessible to all members of the community.
5. A library card can spark inspiration
If you are a student, a library card is the most valuable item you can own. University libraries and public libraries offer extensive electronic resources for students that can help with projects, essays, and the all-important research that sparks inspiration for an essay.
Whether you are looking for free software to pick up a new language or help with an upcoming assignment, your library has you covered.
Join the conversation over on LinkedIn, we’d love to hear views
As innovators of library technology for over 20 years, D-Tech International is always operating at the cutting-edge to develop the next generation of enhancements – speak to one of our experienced and friendly team to find out how new technologies could transform your patron experience.
