Thursday, April 25, 2024
Get your child to sign up for a library card
Did you know that a library card can be one of the most valuable cards in your wallet (or on your keychain)?
September is Library Card Sign-up Month, a time when the Gatesville Public Library joins the American Library Association (ALA) and libraries nationwide to remind parents, caregivers and students that signing up for a library card is the first step on the path to academic achievement and lifelong learning.
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 work together in a national effort to ensure every child signs up for their own library card. There is nothing more empowering than signing up for your own library card.
Through access to technology, media resources and educational programs, a library card gives students the tools to succeed in the classroom and provides people of all ages opportunities to pursue their dreams and passions. At our library, you’ll find a wide variety of resources and activities for all ages.
We are fortunate Gatesville is a community that supports and uses our library. Libraries play a critical role in the happiness of Americans. Communities that spend more on libraries are shown to support the well-being of community members, according to a study by Patrick Flavin on State government public goods spending and citizens' quality of life.
The Gatesville Public Library, along with libraries everywhere, continue to adapt and expand services to meet the evolving needs of our community. We welcome ideas and suggestions from our patrons and offer opportunities and materials that interest and enhance the lives of our citizens. To sign up for a library card or to learn more about the library’s resources and programs, please visit gatesvilletx.com/library.
BANNED BOOKS WEEK
Another observance to take note of is Banned Books Week Sept, 26 to Oct. 2. Banned Books Week is an annual event celebrating the freedom to read.
Banned Books Week was launched in 1982 in response to a sudden surge in the number of challenges to books in schools, bookstores and libraries. Typically held during the last week of September, it highlights the value of free and open access to information.
Banned Books Week brings together the entire book community — librarians, booksellers, publishers, journalists, teachers, and readers of all types — in shared support of the freedom to seek and to express ideas, even those some consider unorthodox or unpopular.
Keep an eye on the website for some great fall events and activities. Details for our September Reading Challenge are there with our schedule of events. We will also be posting details for our Storybook Pumpkin Contest and the annual Boozaar! signup. Boozaar is planned for Saturday, Oct. 30 from 6-8 p.m.
All of our events at the library are on the calendar on our website gatesvilletx.com/library. You can also follow us on Facebook and Instagram @gateslib. For questions or more information, please call the library at 254.865.5367 or email me at fnichols@gatesvilletx.com.
