This September Danville Public Library is joining the American Library Association (ALA) and libraries nationwide for Library Card Sign-Up Month, a time to remind parents, caregivers and students that a library card is the first step towards academic achievement and lifelong learning. A library card opens a world of infinite possibilities through resources and services that give students the tools to succeed in school and beyond. From STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) programs, family storytimes, to makerspaces and in-person homework help, libraries transform lives through education. Libraries offer free and fun educational resources and activities that bring families and communities together. The Library’s Rubber Ducky Readers offers a fun way for families of preschoolers to read 1000 books before kindergarten. The Wonder Garden club allows children to interact in nature while providing guidance from local Master Gardener and Master Naturalist volunteers.
Libraries play an important role in the education and development of children. Studies show that children who are read to in the home and who use the library perform better in school and are more likely to continue to use the library as a source of lifetime learning. “We offer Tween and Teen 3D printer classes,” says Lisa Abdelghani, Director of Youth Services. “In our Teen Zone Makerspace we offer various activities from learning robotics with our Sphero Sprk and mini robots to becoming the ultimate inventor with our littleBits Gizmos and Gadgets kit. Realflight flight simulators spark the thrill of flying while our sewing classes teach a skill that can be used throughout life.”
This year, Disney and Pixar’s “Toy Story 4” characters Woody, Buzz Lightyear, Bo Peep and friends are going on adventure as Honorary Chairs of Library Card Sign-Up Month. In their role, they will promote the value of a library card and bring attention to the many ways libraries transform lives and communities. On Saturday, September 28, Danville Public Library will host a Toy Story Day, with games, crafts, movie showings and a special Toy Story storytime with Mayor Rickey Williams, Jr. at 2:00 p.m.
Since 1987, the ALA and libraries unite in a national effort to ensure every child signs up for their own library card. For more information about how to sign up for a library card, please visit Danville Public Library in person or online. The Library is located at 319 N. Vermilion St. in Danville. Library hours are Monday-Thursday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Friday-Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. The library website address is: www.danville.lib.il.us
