September is Library Card Sign-Up Month!

September is National Library Card Sign-Up Month, so stop by a library near you to pick up your most essential school supply. You may be surprised to find that your card gives you access to much more than books (although we have thousands of those too!). Register today and start taking advantage of all that’s available to you with an HCPL library card.

COLLECTION

In addition to a diverse collection of books, DVDs, magazines, and audiobooks, a library card gives you access to HCPL’s downloads and streaming platforms, where you can browse and borrow free digital content. Find ebooks and audiobooks on Libby, browse digital magazines through Magzter, and stream movies, television, music, books, and more on Hoopla!  

Our collection also includes curated kits available for checkout. Families can explore the great outdoors with birding and nature backpacks, and encourage a love for reading with books and activities found in our 1000 Books Before Kindergarten, and Read to Me kits. Plus, we have kits for adults as well. For those caring for older adults with memory disorders, check out a caregiver kit to help foster conversations on a variety of topics. And if you are interested in hosting your own book club, try browsing our selection of Book Club Bags. Starting a book club has never been easier!

LEARNING & TECHNOLOGY

The library provides computer access to library card holders at all of our locations. Computer users can check email, browse the web, scan documents, and use software like Microsoft Word, Powerpoint, and Excel. At our five larger area libraries — Fairfield, Libbie Mill, Tuckahoe, Twin Hickory, and Varina — you can visit our Digital Media Labs to use equipment and software for more advanced digital media projects. And if you want to learn more about how to use our computers, software, and various equipment, attend one of our free classes!

In addition to these, the library offers programs for all ages such as book discussions, storytimes, speakers, films, arts and crafts, and more. Visit our online calendar, or pick up a program guide at your local library to view free events happening near you!

MEETING ROOMS

Whether you need a space to study, meet with a group, or give a presentation, the library offers several reservable rooms to library card holders. Visit our Room Reservations page to learn more about booking a space at HCPL.

RESEARCH & LEARNING

Need help on homework, learning a new language, or searching for recommendations on household items? Your library card can help you do all three! Databases like Tutor.com, Rosetta Stone, and Consumer Reports are available to you for free. From scholarly articles, to genealogy resources, to job help, and more, our databases offer support on a variety of topics. Be sure to browse them all!

GETTING A CARD

If you or someone you know needs a library card, stop by any HCPL location to apply in person. You can also start your application online and activate your registration by visiting any library and picking up your card. Plus, September is also free library card replacement month! So if you already have a card but have misplaced it, or accidentally put it through the wash a few too many times, stop by your library to pick up a brand new one.

Questions? Feel free to reach out through our Ask a Librarian Feature (green tab on the right side of our website), or check out our FAQ page for answers to commonly asked questions.