No library card? September is prime time to sign up

As students settle into new routines this month, libraries around the nation are campaigning to remind parents that a library card is an essential school supply. The American Library Association has led national Library Card Sign-up Month every September since 1987 to promote library resources for academic achievement and lifelong learning.

To further entice area residents to sign up, Vernon Area Public Library in Lincolnshire offers new cardholders a bonus item throughout the month: children receive a sturdy mesh knapsack and adults score a card pocket for their cell phones.

Signing up for a card takes just a few minutes. New applicants can complete an online form (bit.ly/VernonLibraryCard) or visit the library at 300 Olde Half Day in Lincolnshire. All in-district residents are eligible and need only show a photo ID with their current address; guardians show their identification for cardholders under age 18. Temporary residents who are living within the district for 30 days or longer need only show proof of the long-term stay and a photo ID to unlock full and free access to the library.

A Vernon Area Library card allows the holder to borrow books, movies, music and magazines in a variety of formats including digital downloads. A library card also gives patrons full access to verified information sources for reliable research, whether they're at home, at the office or traveling. For more information, call 847-634-3650 or visit http://www.vapld.info.