DC’s Wonder Woman champions the power of a library card in 2020
September is Library Card Sign-up Month, a time when the New Jersey Library Association (NJLA) joins the American Library Association (ALA) and libraries nationwide to remind parents, caregivers and students that signing up for a library card is the first step on the path to academic achievement and lifelong learning.
There is nothing more empowering than signing up for your own library card. Through access to technology, media resources and educational programs, a library card gives students the tools to succeed in the classroom and provides people of all ages opportunities to pursue their dreams and passions.
New Jersey libraries continue to adapt and expand services to meet the evolving needs of their communities. The outbreak of the coronavirus forced libraries throughout the state to close their buildings, but libraries never stopped supporting their communities.
Despite being quarantined at home during the outbreak, New Jersey residents with library cards often had access to eBooks, audiobooks, digital magazines, virtual story times, online tutoring resources, and much more.
“Our society is at a critical juncture with regard to the rapidly changing digital landscape and the skills needed to thrive in a physically distant world,” said Patricia Tumulty, Executive Director of the New Jersey Library Association. “One of the most amazing things about libraries is how they were able to quickly pivot in response to the pandemic to connect to current needs.”
And libraries are now playing a critical role in the thoughtful reopening of the state by offering contactless curbside pickup of library materials, supporting remote learning for students, and providing employment and small business resources to aid in the economic recovery.
This year, DC’s Wonder Woman is embarking on a mission to champion the power of a library card as Library Card Sign-up Month Honorary Chair. In her new role, Wonder Woman will promote the value of libraries and encourage everyone to get their very own library card.
Since 1987, Library Card Sign-up Month has been held each September to mark the beginning of the school year. During the month, ALA, NJLA and libraries unite together in a national effort to ensure every child signs up for their own library card.
For more information and to sign up for a library card, visit your local library’s website. You can find your local library using our Find a Library tool.