Did you know that there are places in Centre County that offer free Wi-Fi, free DVD and book entertainment to borrow, free events, free shelter from the weather, free information resources, free digital tools and friendly staff who will always help you—no tip required?
This is not a fantasy. These places exist in right now and continue to evolve to meet the intellectual and social needs of your community.
Hopefully, you’ve already realized that we’re talking about your public libraries. They truly are magical places.
But here’s the surprising part: Only about 35% of Centre County residents have a library card. At Centre County Library & Historical Museum, we know some people may not have public library cards because they live far from a library branch or may be Penn State students or employees who have access to university resources. However, this hardly explains why nearly two-thirds of our county’s population has not registered for a free public library card.
This is why we’re issuing some “homework” this September, a.k.a. National Library Card Sign-Up Month: If you do not already have a library card, make it a priority to register for one at your local library or online.
Not convinced yet? Here are five excellent reasons everyone should take action and sign up for a library card:
1. Free access to books and media
Borrow thousands of books, e-books, audiobooks, magazines, DVDs and more for free! You only pay if something is lost or damaged, and with e-books and e-audiobooks, there is no risk of the dog eating your library book or losing a disc in your car.
2. Show your support for the library
When you register for a card, you’re counted in the statistics libraries share with local and state representatives. Those numbers help demonstrate just how valuable libraries are to their communities and help advocate for increased funding to libraries, which has been stagnant or rescinded in recent years. Signing up for a library card is a simple way to show you care about your community.
3. Technology at your fingertips
From Wi-Fi hotspots and CD players to video magnifiers, libraries lend valuable and useful technology as well as books. Need to use a computer, print a document or send a fax? Your library is there for you, with staff ready to help.
4. Stay connected with your community
Libraries are social spaces. You might meet fellow parents at storytime, neighbors at a book club or new friends at events. Plus, library bulletin boards and staff can help keep you in the know about what’s happening locally.
5. A ticket to lifelong learning
The library holds information that is regularly curated by library staff to suit the needs of people in Centre County. Exploring your library regularly can unlock a whole world of new ideas and opportunities.
So—are you ready to get your own library card?
Stop by a Centre County Library location or apply online: www.centrecountylibrary.org/librarycardapplication.
If you live in or around the State College area, visit Schlow Library or register online: www.schlowlibrary.org/get-card-my-account.
Centre County Federation of Public Library Locations:
- Centre County Library – 200 North Allegheny Street, Bellefonte | 814-355-1516
- Centre Hall Area Branch Library – 109 West Beryl Street, Centre Hall | 814-364-2580
- Holt Memorial Library – 17 North Front Street, Philipsburg | 814-342-1987
- Schlow Centre Region Library – 211 S. Allen Street, State College | 814-237-6236
This September, take a step that will benefit you, your family, and your community—sign up for your own library card!
Elizabeth Schwartz is communications manager for Centre County Library & Historical Museum.
