By Ariel Killian

The Orange Leader

 

Since 1987, Library Card Sign-up Month has been held each September to mark the beginning of the school year. During the month, the American Library Association and libraries unite in a national effort to ensure every child signs-up for their own library card. 

Throughout the school year, public librarians and library staff will assist parents and caregivers with saving hundreds of dollars on educational resources and services for students. From free access to STEAM programs/activities, educational apps, in-person and virtual homework help, technology workshops to the expertise of librarians, a library card is one of the most cost-effective back to school supplies available, according to http://www.ala.org

City of Orange residents, not including West Orange or Pinehurst, will be able to obtain a free library card from the Orange Public Library (when you bring a picture ID, and 2 proofs of address). Nonresidents may purchase one of the following. $40 for a family membership, $25 for single, $10 punch card with the use of 10, or $5 for a student (ages 5-grade 12). Must bring ID and two proofs of address. The library will also issue cards to Lamar State College-Orange students with no charge when shown current LSCO student ID.

Including the mass selection of books you will encounter, you will also have access to computers, newspapers,  art prints, DVD’s, magazines, e-books, and audiobooks through the catalog website at https://orange.biblionix.com/catalog/. Simply log in with your information and open a vast world of knowledge and imagination.

Along with your membership, you will have access to free classes hosted by the Orange Public Library. Starting on Sept. 11, Story Time 10:15 a.m.- 10:45 a.m. for 3-5 year olds, Lapsit for infants – 2 year olds from 11 a.m.-11:20 a.m., followed by playtime until 12:00 p.m. Registration will be held at the first program, for more information, call (409) 883-1086.

Also being held are nonlibrary cardholder theme nights.

Family Game Night is from 5 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. on September 17, October 15, and November 19. Children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Registration is not required.

Cookies and Coloring is 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. on Thursdays July 18- October 17, and free to ages 17 and up. Coloring sheets and colored pencils will be provided but feel free to bring your own. bring a brown bag lunch and they will have water, coffee, and cookies. Registration is not required. 

Library cards are a great investment, cost wise. 

Instead of purchasing, a $30 book for a one time use, you are saving so much by supporting your local library and having endless access to books in all forms. Diverse opportunities are being made not only to join the community, but soon they will be installing cubicles for those who would like to have small meetings, film short videos, or just to study privately. Orange Public Library also holds Early Voting from October 21- November 1.