The Cobb County Public Library System (CCPLS) encourages residents of all ages to participate in Library Card Sign-Up Month, a campaign highlighting the resources and activities offered by libraries.

With students beginning the 2012-2013 school year in Cobb County, now is an especially good time for families to make sure household members have library cards. All area public and most private schools opened in August, just ahead of Library Card Sign-Up Month, a national drive promoted each September by the American Library Association.

“Library cards pay dividends for a lifetime,” says CCPLS library director Helen Poyer. “Libraries offer free resources for many interests, from serving as tool for young people developing reading skills and succeeding in school, to providing useful information for families making choices about health, recreation, finance, and other aspects of life.”  

Young families use libraries as one of the earliest places for children to experience
storytelling, books, and the arts outside the home. For students, libraries provide books and other resources, along with room to relax, study, or play outside the classroom. Among the other uses for libraries are its resources for consumers, company executives, and investors seeking up-to-date business information. 

CCPLS Sign-Up Month activities include movie festivals, story times, book discussion groups, workshops, and more. For information on CCPLS events, please visit www.cobbcat.org.

Getting a library card is easy, only takes a few moments, and is free for Cobb County residents.  Parents and guardians should visit the library with their children, bring proof of residency and photo identification, and fill out a short form. Library cards are valid for two years.  

New CCPLS patrons often turn into regular library patrons as they discover the
array of resources – from books and electronic media to comfortable rooms for
private or group gatherings available at various library locations.  

“Sign-Up Month is an excellent opportunity to invite friends, family members, and
business associates to join or renew membership in the library system,” said Jonathan McKeown, associate director for central and outreach services. “Thousands of our patrons make Cobb’s 17 libraries destinations in their lives outside of work, school, social organizations, and home.”

For more information on how to sign up for a library card, visit any Cobb County Public Library System location in person or online at www.cobbcat.org.