There are a million reasons to sign up for a library card – it’s your all-access pass to stories, learning, and community. Books, movies, music, classes, events, even free tickets to shows across the Twin Cities…the list is endless!
This September, celebrate with us by bringing your family, a friend, or a neighbor to sign up for library cards together. Here are just a few reasons to grab yours:
1. Save money at the library
Reading can be an expensive hobby. An adult book averages $17, and audiobooks run about $10 each. With a library card, you won’t break the bank. Books, audiobooks, eBooks – they’re all free! Download the Libby app to access free eBooks and audiobooks.
But the savings don’t stop there—libraries offer movies, music, records, magazines, newspapers, and more. Check out the digital library for online learning, homework help, educational resources, and more than 100 online resources.
Looking for something free and fun to do? There’s always something going on at the library. There are tons of programs for families – from story times to playdates. No little ones? Find a craft circle, attend an author event, join a writing group, or find many other events for adults! Spend your free time at the library at no cost to you.
And don’t miss smARTpass. Your library card gets you access to free and/or discounted admission to shows and exhibits at a variety of theaters, museums, venues, and more across the Twin Cities such as First Avenue, Turf Club, Minnesota Fringe, Children’s Theater Company, and many more!
From borrowing books to getting free tickets to a show, library cards can save you quite a bit. If you’re curious to know how much you could be (or have been) saving using with a library card, use this calculator from Franklin-Springboro Public Library.
2. Continue your learning journey
Whether you’re picking up a new hobby or learning a language, your library card is a lifelong learning tool. Libraries are a way to access continued learning in and out of school.
Students of all ages can use Homework Centers for free after school tutoring at five Saint Paul Public Library locations. Access online learning resources on subjects from career certification and licensure exam prep to college entrance test prep. Check out more for students with homework help resources.
For learning outside of school, find curated resources or events to help you in starting your own small business, use Transparent Language—a free online language learning tool, get crafty at the Innovation Lab, and more! You can even use LinkedIn Learning for free, which typically costs $240 each year.
You can even fix your car at the library! Well... Sort of. At any SPPL location, access ALLDATA Repair, an online software you can use to access auto repair information for vehicles dating back to 1982.
Whatever you’re curious about, the library has a resource to help you dive in.
3. Support your community
Libraries are essential to communities. They provide a free, accessible space to find information, use free or low-cost services, gather with community, or just do life. Signing up for a library card is one of the simplest ways you can support your library and your community. Show your support for libraries by celebrating Library Card Sign Up Month with Saint Paul Public Library. Bring your friends and family to sign up for your very own library card!
Want to celebrate together? Join us for the Great North Star Read Together at George Latimer Central Library on September 20 at 11 a.m. Bring your friends, family, and someone who doesn’t yet have a library card. Pack your favorite book—or borrow one when you get here—and be part of a statewide Read-In!
Your library card is more than just a card. It’s savings, learning, and community—all in your pocket. Sign up today at any SPPL location, and invite someone you love to sign up with you!
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