SE Valley Times

September is Library Card Sign-up Month, a national effort to ensure every child signs up for their library card. Mesa Public Library is joining 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 toward academic achievement and lifelong learning.

"Education transforms communities, and libraries introduce us to the world, expose us to new ideas and ignite our imagination. The library card is the key that opens the door to lifelong learning," said Polly Bonnett, Director of Mesa Public Library. "There is nothing more empowering than signing up for your library card."

Mesa Public Library offers a wide range of resources from early literacy programs to virtual homework help and free online apps, helping transform lives and communities through education. Through access to technology, media resources and educational programs, our library card gives students the tools to succeed in the classroom. It provides people of all ages opportunities to pursue their dreams and passions.

Mesa Public Library cards are free for anyone who lives in Maricopa County for at least 30 consecutive days a year, works, owns property or attends school within the County.

During National Library Card Sign-Up Month in Mesa, current Mesa Public Library cardholders can exchange their old card for a newer design at no cost. New members can visit any branch with a photo ID and register for a card. Lost cards can be replaced for free during National Library Card Sign-Up Month, usually a two-dollar charge, as long as there are no fines or fees on the account.

Mesa Public Library, along with libraries everywhere, continues to adapt and expand services to meet the evolving needs of our community. In 2020, Mesa Public Library followed the local and national trend of waiving overdue fines and fees.

Special discounts are available to cardholders during September at small businesses who joined Mesa’s Library Card Sign-Up Month Business Discount Program. Participating merchants receive a window sign for the program and free promotion through Mesa Public Library’s marketing campaign. A survey of businesses that participated last year found that several gained new customers. The program also helped increase the library cardholder base and led to Mesa Public Library receiving a public relations award from the American Library Association.

Mesa Public Library has three branches:
Main Library, 64 E. First St.
Dobson Ranch Library, 2425 S. Dobson Road
Red Mountain Library, 635 N. Power Road

To sign up for a library card or to learn more about the library's resources and programs, please visit www.mesalibrary.org.

Original source can be found here.