Library Cards Empower Students and Fuel Academic Success

September is Library Card Sign-Up Month, a time when Prince William Public Libraries 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.

There is nothing more empowering than signing up for your own library card. 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 and passions.

Libraries offer everything from early literacy programs to virtual homework help to English Conversation groups, helping transform lives and communities through education. At Prince William Public Libraries, you’ll find a wide variety of educational resources and activities, including Girls Who Code, whose mission is to close the gender gap in technology and to change the image of what a programmer looks like and does and Career Online High School, an online high school diploma and career certification program for residents who are at least 20 years old and wish to earn their high school diploma.

“Libraries play an important role in the education and development of children,” Deborah L. Wright, library director. “We have library programs that serve students of all ages and backgrounds such as virtual and in-person story times, offering interactive experiences that engage children and focus on pre-reading skills that all children need to become good readers; Teen Advisory Groups that help get young adults involved in volunteerism, leadership, and opportunities to meet other like-minded individuals; and Grow with Google programs offered through MAGIC, offering free training, tools and resources to help adults group your skills, career, or business.”

Prince William Public Libraries, along with libraries everywhere, continues to adapt and expand services to meet the evolving needs of our communities. To sign up for a library card or to learn more about the library’s resources and programs, visit pwcva.gov/library. 

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.

Since 1987, Library Card Sign-Up Month has been held each September to mark the beginning of the school year. During the month, the ALA and libraries work together in a national effort to ensure every child signs up for their own library card.

Prince William Public Libraries consists of 12 branches throughout Prince William County and the City of Manassas, providing free access to books, e-books, e-audio, print and digital magazines, Digital Library, and CDs/DVDs. PWPL also offers free educational and entertaining programs for all ages.