MY FIRST LIBRARY CARD GETS READERS STARTED EARLY
Although adults may be drawn to the unique design and lack of any late fees for overdue materials, the My First Library Card is strictly for Marion’s youngest readers. The card, for library users age 5 and under, is a clear message from the Library that “you’re never too young to get a Library Card!”
Kids with this card can check-out any of the items found in the Library’s newly renovated Kids Area. The fine-free status was implemented in order to remove as many of the barriers as possible that prevent books from getting in the hands of children in the community, and the Library is excited to be a partner in the Marion community’s initiatives focusing on early childhood literacy.
With the support of the Marion Community Foundation, new recipients of a My First Library Card receive a tote bag that’s perfect for using over and over again on library trips. The gift bag also includes an age-appropriate book selection to help build the child’s own personal library.
Adults are encouraged to check out more children’s materials in support of United Way’s Let’s Read 20 initiative. Statistics show that when children are read to at least 20 minutes a day, their vocabulary can consist of almost 2 million more words by the 6th grade than those who were not read to, or were read to less.
Stop by the Library’s main desk to get a card. Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian to sign up for a card, and all that’s needed is a parent’s valid photo ID. More information about the My First Library Card can be found at http://marionlibrary.org/MyFirstLibraryCard.
