This September, the staff of the Bettendorf and Davenport Public Library systems have been hard at work promoting library membership through various incentives.
Founded in 1987, National Library Card Sign-up Month is a campaign run by the American Library Association (A.L.A) with the mission to get all people, especially kids, to access their library’s resources.
This year, the A.L.A has partnered with Disney and Pixar to use the new movie “Elemental” for promotional materials. They also provide posters, bookmarks, coloring pages and graphics for social media accounts.
At the Bettendorf Public Library, new or renewing users are given a free reading bag and entered into a drawing for library merchandise. Limited edition library cards from the 2022 design competition are also available.
Bettendorf Public Library Director Jillian Aschliman is passionate about the opportunities the library presents. “A library card can help students and families save money on educational resources and services. [It provides] online research databases, the library’s digital collection (eBooks, streaming video, digital music, etc.), online tutoring, and homework help!” explained Aschliman.
Library advocates are also excited about the month. “I have loved reading books since I was a kid, and as a member of the teen leadership committee at the Bettendorf library, I love supporting the library in any way I can,” shared junior Victoria Rice.
Over in Davenport, the three libraries have partnered with 16 local businesses to provide special deals. At Barrel House, Raygun, Nothing Bundt Cake and more, a library punch card will earn cardholders discounts and freebies.
The library is an important resource for the entire community, especially for students. Because of challenges to intellectual freedom in both school and public libraries, students are vulnerable to a constraint on material. Over the first eight months of 2023, the A.L.A reports 695 attempts to censor library materials or services.
With imminent school book bans, supporting public libraries is essential to combatting the suppression of information. “Libraries are great because there is a huge selection of topics, so there really is something for everyone. A library should be able to have a wide range of information and opinions and shouldn’t be censored,” said Rice.
Libraries are also vital to informing citizens. Through free internet access and the Rivershare Library System’s recent change to fine-free books, everyone has a means to access information. The library not only provides physical reading materials, but also a multitude of free programs, supplies and services ranging from internet Hotspots to notary services to knitting kits.
Public libraries are an invaluable resource. Signing up for a library card is a simple way that anyone can support their ability to continue hosting programs and purchasing new materials.
