Adventure Awaits: Library Card Sign-Up Month Gets Stamp Of Approval

NEW ROCHELLE, NY — A passport, a platinum airline rewards card or a TSA PreCheck membership can make traveling easier, but the New Rochelle Public Library is celebrating the only card that guarantees VIP access to every destination on earth and beyond, past, future or present.

September is Library Card Sign-up Month and the New Rochelle Public Library (NRPL) is joining the American Library Association (ALA) and other libraries across the country to remind everyone about all of the resources in reach with a library card.

According to NRPL, a library card "is not just a ticket to a world of books; it's an invitation to explore, learn, and grow." From page-turning novels, to digital e-books and audiobooks, "a library card offers access to a treasure trove of literary wonders."

However, the library is taking this opportunity to remind us that the benefits extend far beyond reading material.

Your library card might be the most important "membership" card in your wallet. Unlike those other cards, with a library card, the perks are endless.

Explore Museums for Free: Free admission to several NYC & Westchester museums through the Museum Pass program, made possible by the NRPL Foundation.

Language Learning at Your Fingertips: Transparent Languages Online is a resource the NRPL recently acquired for learners of all levels to build their listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills in 110+ foreign languages.

Ace Your Tests with Peterson's Test Prep: Practice tests, test prep eBooks, scholarship information, and search thousands of college and graduate schools online. Also job search tools.

Enjoy Hundreds of Movies, TV Series, Music, and More in English and Spanish: The Shelf provides access to hundreds of movies, television series, podcasts, music, and more.

Tech on Loan: Borrow WiFi-enabled Chromebooks, iPads, and hotspots from the library.

Private Study Rooms for Productivity: Numerous private rooms, perfect for work-from-home setups, meetings, online interviews, and more.

Find out more about these programs and services on the library website.

NRPL says that it is committed to adapting and expanding its services to meet the ever-evolving needs of the community: "Whether you're a student looking to boost your academic achievements or an individual eager for lifelong learning, obtaining a library card is elemental—it's an essential step toward enriching your life."

An annual tradition for 36 years, Library Card Sign-up Month coincides with the start of the school year. The nationwide initiative aims to ensure that every child has the opportunity to obtain their very own library card.

If you are a New Rochelle resident of any age, or if you work or attend school in New Rochelle, signing up for a library card is easy. Just visit the library with identification and proof of New Rochelle residency/work/school, and in just a few minutes, you will have your very own New Rochelle Public Library Card. You can also apply for a library card at the New Rochelle Street Fair on Sunday, September 10, at upcoming meet-the-teacher nights at New Rochelle public schools, or on the library website.

"A library card is the most valuable card in your wallet," Tom Geoffino, Director of NRPL, said. "Between borrowing books or e-books instead of buying them, attending free concerts and movies, participating in workshops, taking advantage of our museum pass program, and more, the value of your library card is easily several hundreds of dollars per year."