Stark Library celebrates National Library Card Sign-up Month

I still remember receiving my first library card while living in New York as a child. I was at the Bellerose Branch of Queens Public Library, and to me this was way more than just a card. It was a ticket to explore worlds I had never seen, to meet characters I would never forget, and to discover interests that would shape me all along the journey of my life. While still a child, I could not imagine that someday libraries would become my life's work. This small card started a journey that changed my life into something bigger — reaching and supporting communities across the country. I did understand something very important though, even at that early age — library cards open minds, create opportunities, and expand communities. The memory of my first library card comes back to me every time the month of September rolls around, as September is National Library Card Sign-up Month. This nationwide celebration of access to all possibilities was established by the American Library Association in 1987. They wanted to encourage people of all ages to discover the numerous ways a library card can unlock opportunity. This year's National Library Card Sign-up Month theme is, "A Library Card Hits All the Right Notes." This theme reminds us that libraries offer something for everyone, no matter your age, interests, or stage of life. At Stark Library, our dedicated staff members see every day how a library card changes people's lives in both small and big ways! For a small child, it can mean an early introduction to the joy of reading — just like it was for me when I was growing up in New York. For others, it can mean finding a quiet place to study, learning new technology skills, applying for a job, starting a business, researching family history, or simply finding a good book to unwind with after a long day of work. Did you know that few community resources are as versatile as our library card? Nearly 61,000 Stark County residents are Stark Library cardholders, and in 2025 alone, our friends, families, and neighbors borrowed almost 2.7 million physical and digital items, with more than 633,000 people walking through our doors. These incredible numbers tell the story that our community members value learning and education, connection with others, and free access to information. While reading is at the heart of our service, libraries across the country are evolving to meet changing community needs. As technology has become essential to everyday life, libraries have become critical access points for many digital services. Stark Library provides free public computers, Wi-Fi, hotspots, printing, technology classes, and personalized assistance to people across our county. Last year alone, community members logged more than 77,000 computer sessions and nearly 251,000 Wi-Fi sessions at Stark Library. Libraries also support economic growth and workforce development. Our updated Study Rooms are in high demand by local students and tutors, while entrepreneurs, small business owners and community organizations consistently utilize our sought-after meeting rooms. For example, ourm and study rooms were booked more than 10,300 times in 2025. One thing I have always loved about libraries is in a world where so many services come with subscriptions, fees, and paywalls, your local library remains one of the most accessible and welcoming places for gathering. Anyone can walk through the doors of any Stark Library location and spend time learning something new, connecting with others, or simply enjoy a quiet moment of solitude in a noisy world — all without the expectation of spending any money. This September, I encourage you to rediscover all of what Stark Library has to offer you, your friends, your family, and your neighbors. Visit any one of our 10 locations to sign up for your free Stark Library card. You never know, we might introduce a child in your life to the joys of reading, help you learn a new skill, support your recent job search, connect you to others in your community, or simply help you discover your next read. Whatever "note" you're looking for, there's a place for you here at Stark Library. Sign up now for your Stark Library card at StarkLibrary.org/Card, or visit any Stark Library location. Mary Ellen Icaza is CEO/executive director of the Stark Library.