This September Osceola Public Library (OPL) is joining the American Library Association (ALA) and libraries nationwide for Library Card Sign-Up Month, a time to remind parents, caregivers and students that a library card is the first step towards academic achievement and lifelong learning.

A library card opens a world of infinite possibilities through resources and services that give students the tools to succeed in school and beyond. From STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) programs, family storytimes, to makerspaces and in-person or virtual homework help, libraries transform lives through education. Libraries offer free and fun educational resources and activities that bring families and communities together.

Libraries play an important role in the education and development of children. Studies show that children who are read to in the home and who use the library perform better in school and are more likely to continue to use the library as a source of lifetime learning.

This year we have held a lot of intergenerational programming such as: Diabetes counts, Crochet Group, game days, open coffees, blood pressure checks, cake decorating, young warrior yoga and free heart health programs.

The Osceola Public Library also offers: homeschool activities, preschool story time, Ancestry basics and research seminars, genealogy lunch n’ learns, adult coloring, author visits, adult and children craft times, Adult and Young Adult book clubs, Library Week Celebration events and programming, Clarke County Arts Council Art exhibits, local high school student art exhibits, 4-H art exhibits, meeting room reservations, a Summer Reading Program, Transparent Language, Gale databases and so much more!

This year, Disney and Pixar’s “Toy Story 4” characters Woody, Buzz Lightyear, Bo Peep and friends are going on adventure as Honorary Chairs of Library Card Sign-Up Month. In their role, they will promote the value of a library card and bring attention to the many ways libraries transform lives and communities. During September, the Osceola Public Library will host activities, including: an open house, an opportunity to share valuable resources, materials, databases and services the OPL provides, and fun kid activities!

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 unite in a national effort to ensure every child signs up for their own library card. For more information about how to sign up for a library card, please visit the Osceola Public Library in person.

For more information, contact Aric Bishop, Library Director, abishop@osceola.lib.ia.us, 641.342.2237.