Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. Since then, thousands of public libraries and schools have participated every fall, stressing the importance of obtaining a library card as a child’s most important school supply. The following year September was declared Library Card Sign-Up Month.

The event included remarks from Chisholm, Newman, and Secretary Bennett, along with story and craft time, and free pizza. October 14 was the kick off celebration for the campaign, held on the Mall in Washington, D.C., with 500 children in attendance. Ideas included circulating a letter from the librarian, awards and celebrations, PTA recruitment, and joint sponsors. Packets of information and ideas were sent out to libraries to help the campaign gain momentum and to inspire librarians. The first theme was “The Best Gift You’ll Ever Give Your Child … A Library Card.” Because of the Reader’s Digest grant, Library Card Sign-Up Month was advertised on over 500 TV and radio stations, along with 200 magazines. A telegram was sent to Secretary Bennett saying, “We accept your challenge.” The American Library Association took Secretary Bennett’s words seriously and teamed up with the National Commission on Libraries and Information Science (NCLIS) to start the campaign, with a grant of $85,000 from the Reader’s Digest Foundation. Library Card Sign-Up Month first started in 1987 as a response to then Secretary of Education, William Bennett, who stated: “Let’s have a campaign … Every child should obtain a library card and use it.” Sign up for a library card and find something wonderful at your library! From storytime to audiobooks to DIY classes and more, there's something for everyone.It gives you access to technology, resources, and services to pursue your passions and dreams. There is nothing more empowering than getting your own library card.Do you have a library card? September is #Librar圜ardSignupMonth so get one today! Check out your library’s website to learn how you can access movies, eBook’s, video games and much more.Make sure your kids have the most important school supply of all-a library card! Get one this September and kick off the school year right.Yay-September is #Librar圜ardSignupMonth! Celebrate by visiting your library and getting your very own library card.

Follow I Love Libraries on Facebook and Twitter and the hashtag #Librar圜ardSignUpMonth to join the celebration on social media.

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