September is Library Card Sign-up Month, a time when the Galesburg Public Library joins the
American Library Association (ALA) and libraries nationwide to remind parents, caregivers and
students that signing up for a library card is the first step on the path to academic achievement
and lifelong learning.
There is nothing more empowering than signing up for your own library card. Through access to technology, media resources and educational programs, a library card gives students the tools
to succeed in the classroom and provides people of all ages opportunities to pursue their
dreams and passions. All Galesburg students are eligible for a library card—public, private, and
college students.
Libraries offer everything from early literacy programs to delivery services to assisted living
facilities. The Galesburg Public Library offers book clubs for all ages, an adult coloring club, a
movie club, and several other opportunities to join a group (sometimes over food!). You can
also access an array of digital resources, such as Ancestry for genealogy research, Creativebug
for arts and crafts classes, Lingo Lite for language learning, AtoZ Food America for a database of
recipes, and many more.
Galesburg Public Library, along with libraries everywhere, continue to adapt and expand
services to meet the evolving needs of our community. To sign up for a library card or to learn
more about the library’s resources and programs, please visit www.galesburglibrary.org.
Signing up for a library cards gets you a ticket to win a prize at the end of the month, or, if you
already have a card, you can stop in at the library and show your card at the Check-Out Desk to
enter to win.
This year, Marley Dias, founder of #1000BlackGirlBooks, author and executive producer, is taking on a new role as honorary chair of Library Card Sign-Up Month. In her new role, Dias will
promote the value of libraries and encourage everyone to get their very own library card.
During September, the Galesburg Public Library will host Library Card Sign-up activities: you can
find us at First Friday on September 3 in front of the Carriage House, at Burke Cleaners on
September 12 from 9:00 a.m. until noon, and the Farmer’s Market on September 25.
Since 1987, Library Card Sign-up Month has been held each September to mark the beginning
of the school year. During the month, the ALA and libraries work together in a national effort to
ensure everyone signs up for their own library card.