September is Library Card Sign-Up Month. It reminds students, families and the community that libraries are the key to academic success.

Lexington County 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 or virtual homework help — libraries transform lives through education. Libraries offer free and fun educational resources and activities that bring families and communities together.


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.


“Our library programs serve students of all ages,” says Melissa Pityk, Youth Services Coordinator. “For younger children, we offer early literacy resources to help them learn to read and encourage school readiness, and for teens and older students, we provide access to technology and digital tools (such as virtual reality tools and drone technology) as well as test prep resources.”


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. 


During the month, ALA and libraries unite in a national effort to ensure every child signs up for their own library card. For information about how to sign up for your own library card or get a new Toy Story designed card, visit your local branch.