Celebrating September is library card sign-up month

The Petoskey District Library (PDL) is participating in the national “Library Card Sign-Up Month” this September while also highlighting library cards as its first "Feature of the Month," a new initiative that aims to build community awareness, spark creative ideas, and strengthen the library’s connection with its patrons.

A library card from the Petoskey District Library is more than just a piece of plastic. Cardholders gain access to a vast array of resources, including:

Physical collections: Books, movies, music, games, kits, and devices.
Digital content: Libby, Hoopla, Kanopy, ValueLine, Mango.
Special programs and services: State park passes, Michigan eLibrary Catalog (MeLCat) borrowing, computer use, notary, printing, meeting rooms, and various databases.

Library staff have planned several special events to promote card sign-ups and celebrate existing cardholders:

A staffed table will be set up all day on Tuesday, September 9, in the main lobby to answer questions, register new cardholders, and celebrate existing ones.
PDL will have pop-up libraries at four locations where people can get a card and learn about library services:

Monday, Sept. 15, from noon-3 p.m. at Health Department of Northwest Michigan (3434 Harbor-Petoskey Road, Suite A, Harbor Springs)
Tuesday, Sept. 16, from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at Marshalls (1596 Anderson Road, Petoskey)
Wednesday, Sept. 17, from 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at Friendship Center of Emmet County (1322 Anderson Road, Petoskey),
Friday, Sept. 19, from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at Pennsylvania Park (411 E Lake Street, Petoskey)

Anyone who shows their valid Petoskey Library card in September can be entered into a drawing for a prize. Cardholders can receive two entries if they tag the library on Instagram.

Anyone who lives or owns property within the Petoskey District Library service area is eligible for a free full-service PDL card. This includes residents and property owners in the City of Petoskey, Bear Creek Township, Little Traverse Township, Resort Township, and Springvale Township.

Options are also available for those outside the district:

Students attending school in the district can get a card regardless of where they live, with all juveniles eligible if they attend school locally.
Individuals who work in the district may qualify if they do not already qualify for a PAC2 or Reciprocal card.
PAC2 library cardholders (including Boyne District Library, Charlevoix Public Library, and Crooked Tree District Library and others) can use their cards at PDL, though access to digital services may be limited.
Reciprocal borrowers from partner libraries can register for a one-year privilege with their home library card, without access to digital services or MeLCat.
Temporary residents (staying over a month) can obtain a temporary card with proof of address/receipt of stay.
Out-of-district cards can be purchased for $95/year, $50/6 months, or $25/quarter.

There is no minimum age to get a library card. Kids can obtain their own card with a parent or legal guardian present to sign, while those 13 and up can register independently.

Getting a card is easy! Patrons can apply in person at the library main desk; through online pre-registration on the library's website, where they will receive a temporary number until they provide identification; or at one of the pop-up libraries throughout September.

For most cards, applicants need a photo ID and proof of address (mail, lease, utility bill). For temporary or out-of-district cards, proof of stay and/or payment is required.

"We encourage everyone to explore the incredible value a library card offers," said Jodi Haven, assistant director. "Whether you're looking for entertainment, educational resources, or a connection to your community, a library card is your key. Join us this September to discover the endless possibilities!"

Read more about library card eligibility.

Celebrating September is library card sign-up month

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