September brings with it one of the most exciting times of the year — National Library Card Sign-Up Month! Sure, that might not sound as sugary as, say, a donut deal, but trust us, this is the kind of reward that keeps on giving.
Getting your child their very own library card is like handing them a passport to endless adventures, academic success, and a lifelong love of learning. And the best part? It’s completely free! If you’re not already convinced, here are five page-turning reasons why your family should make a beeline to the library this month.
1. A library expands your child’s horizons
Libraries bring a world of books, movies, music, and more straight to your family. Kids with library cards can choose their own materials and explore their own interests, all while broadening their horizons beyond their home bookshelf.
Plus, a library offers something you can’t find anywhere else — a librarian! Librarians are tour guides of knowledge. Consider them search engines with heart. Forget Google, librarians are the ultimate resource.
2. A library card teaches self-discipline
In a world of instant gratification, libraries can teach some valuable lessons. Sometimes the book your kid wants most will be checked out, and they'll just have to wait. We could all use a little exercise of that patience muscle now and then. Plus, kids learn to balance how many books they want against how many they'll actually read before the due date. It's the perfect opportunity for you to have a low-stakes conversation with them about wants vs. needs!
3. A library card saves money
Having your own books at home is important, but kids don't need to own every book. The cost of buying books adds up fast, not to mention the space they take up in our already crowded houses. A library card lets kids try out new titles, topics, and ideas without spending a dime ... as long as you return them on time.
Curious about how much you're really saving at your local library? Find out with this fun "What's Your Library Worth?" Calculator.
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4. Visiting the library encourages community building
In a world where we probably spend too much time at home and isolated on our screens, libraries are much-needed centers of the community. They offer a wide range of events and classes open to people of all ages and backgrounds. Your kids (and parents, too!) can meet new friends at storytimes or just hang out in the children's area. Or learn a new hobby at one of the other many events your local library is likely hosting! Your library can open up a new world of interests and people for your crew.
5. A library card teaches responsibility
If their name is on the card, kids will likely take the rules of caring for and returning books a lot more seriously. You borrow it, you return it — or face the consequences. Learning lessons about responsibility at the library is a pretty great way for kids to start interacting with the big wide world. And hopefully, the lessons they learn will work at home, too!
Ready to celebrate National Library Card Sign-Up Month? Get your family to the library. It's guaranteed to be love at first chapter.
