PA Department of Education: Dive Into Reading With a Free Library Card

Erie, PA - During a visit to Blasco Library, the PA Department of Education (PDE) encouraged Pennsylvanians to sign up for a library card during Library Card Sign-Up Month and throughout the whole year. Signing up for a library card is a step on the path to academic achievement and lifelong learning.

"My mother worked in a library, so I was fortunate to spend a lot of time around books as a child, and my love of reading has followed me into adulthood," said Acting Secretary of Education Eric Hagarty. "One of the easiest ways to encourage young learners to pick up a book is by visiting their local library, where they can be surrounded by the stories and adventures that will ignite their imagination."

All year long, you can find a public library service location near you using the Office of Commonwealth Libraries' library directory or Find a PA LibraryOpens In A New Window. Many libraries offer the ability to get a library card online, or you can visit the location in person to sign up.

"If you haven't been in a library lately, I guarantee you'll be surprised at what's available to you. Libraries exist to share physical, electronic and virtual resources and services and to provide guidance by caring professionals in a world of information that's increasingly challenging to navigate," said Susan Banks, deputy secretary for the Office of Commonwealth Libraries and state librarian. "Libraries provide the best return on tax dollars in so many ways - supporting all learners in their journeys to grow, achieve their goals and live successful lives. If you don't have a library card, get one today. Libraries belong to everyone - and everyone belongs in libraries."

Continuing Gov. Tom Wolf's support for education across the commonwealth, his final budget included an $11 million increase for libraries, including $69,720,000 for the Public Library Subsidy. The subsidy goes directly to local libraries, library systems, and 29 district library centers, and provides every Pennsylvanian access to statewide resource center libraries at the State Library of Pennsylvania, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh, the Free Library of Philadelphia, and the libraries of The Pennsylvania State University.

Library Card Sign-Up Month has been held every September since 1987 to mark the beginning of the school year. During the month, the American Library Associations and libraries across the United States unite to ensure every child signs up for their own library card. A library card gives students of all ages free access to STEAM programs/activities, in-person and virtual homework help, technology workshops, educational apps, and more.

For more information about Pennsylvania's education policies and programs, please visit the Department of Education's website. Follow PDE on FacebookOpens In A New Window, TwitterOpens In A New Window, YouTubeOpens In A New Window, or PinterestOpens In A New Window.

MEDIA CONTACT: Casey Smith - [email protected]

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