Library cards open hidden worlds and boost success

September is Library Card Sign-up Month, a time when Freeport Memorial 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. During the month, the ALA and libraries work together in a national effort to ensure every child signs up for their own library card, as they have since 1987.

“My kids utilize the after school and on weekends,” said Lillian Torres, a medical assistant at Nassau University Medical Center for the past 12 years. “Even with social media and the Internet, it’s still so alive to come here.”

Libraries offer everything from early literacy programs to virtual programs to virtual homework help and English classes, helping transform lives and communities through education. Freeport Memorial Library offers a wide variety of educational resources and activities, including music concerts, business workshops, children’s story time, and art classes.

“My kids got their library cards through the Freeport Public Schools,” Torres said, “because the school district collaborates with the library.”

“Libraries play an important role in the education and development of children,” said Lee Ann Moltzen, director. “We have library programs that serve students of all ages and backgrounds such as Teddy Bear Story Time for younger children and Jigsaw Jam for intermediate through high school students.”

Within the library is a School Team Resource Activity Center, a room with games, computers, and meeting space for students.

“It’s very lively in there when it’s filled with teenagers,” said Marilyn Pignataro, the library’s cultural program specialist.

This year, Marley Dias, founder of #1000BlackGirlBooks, author and executive producer, is taking on a new role as honorary chair of Library Card Sign-Up Month. In her new role, Dias will promote the value of libraries and encourage everyone to get their very own library card. During September, Freeport Memorial Library is giving a free gift to new Library patrons.

Freeport Memorial Library, along with libraries everywhere, continues to adapt and expand services to meet the evolving needs of our community. To sign up for a library card or to learn more about the library’s resources and programs, please visit www.freeportlibrary.info. Anyone who lives, works, owns property, or goes to school in Freeport is eligible for a library card.