One card, endless possibilities

This September, Tiffin-Seneca Public Library invites you to celebrate Library Card Sign-Up Month and discover how a single card can open the door to endless opportunities. With a library card, you can do more than check out books. From free programs and one-on-one tech help, streaming media, and cultural events, today's libraries connect communities to information, inspiration and each other. The Library Card Sign-up campaign was first introduced in 1987 after a recommendation was made by then Secretary of Education, William Bennett. Bennett stressed the importance of every child obtaining and using a library card and believed a campaign could help to spread the word. The American Library Association took this idea and teamed up with the National Commission on Libraries and Information Science (NCLIS). With an $85,000 grant from the Reader's Digest Foundation, the first national library card sign-up event was born. The following year, September was declared Library Card Sign-Up Month. Since then, thousands of public libraries have participated, highlighting the necessity of access to the resources and materials libraries have to offer. This year's theme, "One Card, Endless Possibilities," is a reminder that libraries are for everyone — no matter your age, background, or goals. Whether you're diving into a new hobby, searching for your next great read, brushing up on tech skills, or helping your child succeed in school, it all starts with a library card. Tiffin-Seneca Public Library is proud to welcome community members of all ages to get a library card. Whether you're a longtime patron or have never visited, now is the perfect time to explore all the library has to offer. In addition to books, movies, audiobooks, music, and periodicals, we also offer a vast array of unique services and programs. These services and programs include free Wi-Fi, mobile hotspots, homework help and services for job seekers, STEAM and art programs for elementary students, story time programs for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers, adult craft programs, 3-D printing opportunities, best-selling author visits, and so much more to ensure that community continues to grow and learn in a welcoming, collaborative environment. Getting a library card is free, easy, and empowering. For students, it's a key to academic success. For adults, it's a gateway to lifelong learning. For everyone, it's a smart way to stay connected to your community. Join us throughout September for a special T-SPL branded giveaway with every new card registration. With just a photo ID (or guardian present for children), you can be a part of this continuing campaign because, with a library card, the possibilities are truly endless! For more information, please stop in, give us a call at (419) 447-3751 or visit our website at www.tiffinsenecalibrary.org. Mandi Whitaker is Public Services Manager for Tiffin-Seneca Public Library.