September 1, 2024
There is a classic “Arthur” episode (yes, PBS Kids’ “Arthur”) where Arthur and his friends sing, “Having fun isn’t hard, when you’ve got a library card.” For the month of September, learn more about Library Card Sign-Up Month activities in various library systems.
The American Library Association has celebrated Library Card Sign-Up Month since 1987.
Kershaw County Library – South Carolina
Hanna Gustafson is the Elgin Branch Manager and Publicity Coordinator. She dived into the library card conversation.
Importance of Library Card
“Library cards are important because they open up so many possibilities for so many different people,” Gustafson said. “Libraries are so much more than books today. We have free e-resources and publications for students, streaming services and digital materials, free access to paid services like tutor.com and ancestry.com and more.”
She said the Kershaw County Library system offers Wi-Fi for internet access for work or school for card holders.
They even offer state park passes for checkout.
“Patrons can enjoy the beauty of our state at no cost to them. With the cost of everything going up, it’s great to have access to so much for free. It can save hundreds of dollars for one single person… not to mention an entire family,” she said.
Get a Card
KCL offers library card sign-up in person at all of their library locations and the bookmobile.
“We have an online form that people can print, fill out, and bring to a branch of their choosing, but they still have to bring it to us in person,” she said.
They verify residency in the county by viewing a person’s ID. They need a rental or mortgage agreement, utility bill or passport for proof of residency.
In the future, the library system does want to provide an online opportunity for online sign-up.
Activities for the Month
For Library Card Sign-up Month, KCL has plans for patrons, both new to the library and long-time users.
“We have free goodies like reusable bags, magnets, pencils/pens and surprises for new patrons,” Gustafson said. “Individual branches have fun games or activities like library bingo at the Elgin library.”
For new and long-time users that play that game, once completed, they are entered in a drawing for a library swag bag.
Bethune and Elgin locations will offer programming for kids where they can craft their own library card holders.
Gustafson said more surprises to come for the month.
Libraries Have Changed
“Over the years, libraries have gone from quiet places to get books and do research to community hubs where everyone can find something useful,” she said.
She said while they still offer books and research, they offer a variety of services alongside the traditional attributes of a library.
They have public computers for those who may not have access to one at home.
“We have free enriching programming open to all, which can build life skills, give general legal information, offer job assistance, enrich lives by starting a new crafting hobby, or build relationships and fellowship in the community,” Gustafson said.
She added on:
“We offer safe spaces to meet for tutoring and support groups. We can also help connect people to much-needed aid and assistance during difficult times, as well.”
Find out more about Kershaw County Library, their mission, events and what they offer to the public by visiting their website at www.kershawcountylibrary.org.
