ECPL encourages students to get their library cards

EAST CHICAGO | As East Chicago students head back to school this September, the East Chicago Public Library wants to make sure that all children have the most important school supply of all - a library card.

Owning a library card provides students the resources they need to compete academically. Most public libraries (89.6 percent) provide students free access to databases of news articles, encyclopedias and test preparation materials, as well as homework help and resources.

In addition, public libraries are the number one access point for free Internet access, an important resource for families without access at home when 96 percent of school districts require students to use the Internet to complete their homework.

Ongoing activities at the East Chicago Public Library include: Preschool Story Hour, Craft Day, Game Day, Story time, Family Library Cinema, Night @ the Movies, Class Visits, Cultural Programs, and many other programs. During Library Card Sign-up month anyone who signs up for a new card will be eligible to enter into a raffle, simply sign up for a new card during the month of September at the Main Library, 2401 E. Columbus Drive or the Pastrick Branch, 1008 W. Chicago Ave.

The drawings will be held on Monday, October 3rd at both locations and winners will receive a gift card. One winner will be drawn at each location and the deadline to enter is September 30.

"Today's libraries provide all types of students with the tools they need to succeed," says Interim Director Mr. Charles Moore. "Libraries provide young readers with exciting and engaging programs that make learning fun. It is for these reasons that now more then ever, a library card is most important school supply of all."

Library Card Sign-up Month is a time when the American Library Association (ALA) and libraries across the country remind parents that a library card is the most important school supply of all.

For more information on how to sign up for a library card, visit the East Chicago Public Library Main Branch located at 2401 E. Columbus Drive or the Pastrick Branch located at 1008 W. Chicago Avenue, call (219) 397-2453 or 397-5505 or visit the library online at www.ecpl.org. Library hours are Monday - Thursday 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM, Friday and Saturday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM.