Submitted by Robbie Marshall, Assistant Director, Brainerd Memorial Library
(August 19, 2022) —September is Library Card Sign-Up Month, when libraries nationwide join the American Library Association (ALA) 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.
Libraries play a crucial role in the education and development of children, offering a variety of programs to spark creativity and stimulate an interest in reading and learning. 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, explore new passions and interests, and find their voice.
At Brainerd Memorial Library, patrons of all ages can find a variety of educational resources and activities. “Libraries play an important role in the education and development of children,” says Marissa Lehmacher, Children’s Librarian. “We have library programs that serve students of all ages and backgrounds, such as weekly story and music times, interest clubs, Teen Advisory Board, craft and STEM activities, and special programs.
During September, Brainerd Memorial Library will host Library Card Sign-Up activities for children, including make your own library card holder, library card bingo, decorate a library bookmark, and fun prizes!
This year, Tony Award-winning performer, actress, singer-songwriter, and philanthropist Idina Menzel (Frozen, Wicked) and her sister, author and educator Cara Mentzel, will serve as honorary chairs of Library Card Sign-Up Month. Idina and Cara are excited to remind everyone that one of the best places to find your voice is at the library. During Library Card Sign-Up Month, they want us to explore all the library has to offer, like new children’s books, access to technology, and educational programming.
Brainerd Memorial Library, along with libraries everywhere, continues to adapt and expand services to meet the evolving community needs. To sign up for a library card or to learn more about the library’s resources and programs, please visit www.brainerdlibrary.org or stop by Brainerd Memorial Library today!
