September Is Library Card Sign-up Month
Micheal Momeyer, left, receives his first library card at Warsaw Community Public Library from librarian Leslie Jeffries. National Library Card Month will encourage many others to turn out to get their own library card, several of which are becoming more high-tech to prevent identity theft. WCPL’s cards will now be featuring the photo of the patron, making it hard for others to use their account. (Photo provided)
Warsaw Community Public Library is pulling out all the stops to celebrate National Library Card Month, which patrons and visitors will see as soon as they enter the building with WCPL Public Relations Manager Kathy Stutzman creating stair risers, which highlight library services.
“Each September, Warsaw Library encourages students, in particular, to sign up for a library card. By motivating children to read, librarians create lifelong readers, and that makes for better citizens, and that makes for a healthier democracy,” Stutzman said in a statement.
“Of course, library cards aren’t just for kids. In fact, two thirds of American adults have a library card. Now more than ever, Americans turn to –– and depend on –– libraries and librarians for financial information, computer and internet access, and, of course, books, movies and more. It’s all free with a library card.”
WCPL is partnering with Kosciusko County Convention and Visitors Bureau this September to encourage people to sign up for a library card by offering a Kosciusko County “Live Well in the Moment” gift basket. The basket is valued at approximately $400 and features treat from all over Kosciusko County.
Adults 19 years and older need only use their library card during the month of September to be eligible to participate in a drawing for a chance to win the basket.
Other area libraries are also getting into the spirit, too:
First-time card holders at the Milford Public Library will receive a personalized poster with a photo of themselves; the posters will then be on display at the library until the end of September when the new card holder can pick up their poster. Those who sign up for a card will also be entered to win a $25 gift certificate to a local restaurant.
Like pizza? North Webster Community Public Library is giving patrons, both adults and children, a chance to enter a pizza drawing whenever they use their library card. An adult winner and a child winner will be drawn at the end of September. Those just signing up for a card will also be entered to win a $25 Visa gift card. Finally, for every five DVDS or VHS checked out, patrons will be entered to win a new DVD player.
Bell Memorial Public Library is offering free lanyards and key chains with each first-time library card sign-up. First-time library card signers will also have the opportunity register for the chance to win a Wal-Mart gift card. Also during September, patrons can received a free replacement for lost library cards. The library will also be highlighting the new design for its children’s cards; during the month, children of at least 6 years of age can switch to the new design for free.
Syracuse Public Library has not planned anything special this year; however, the public is reminded that those who live or own property in Turkey Township can receive a free library card by showing proof of residence. Those living outside the township can also receive a library card at a fee.
Pierceton Washington Township Public Library is also not offering specials in September but welcomes those living in Washington or Monroe townships to sign up for a library card.
