A Library Card Hits All the Right Notes: Celebrate Library Card Sign-up Month

Provided by Prince William Public Libraries

This September, Prince William Public Libraries invites you to celebrate Library Card Sign-up Month and discover how a library card can hit all the right notes, no matter what your tastes are.

With a library card, you can do more than check out books. From homework help and career resources to streaming media and cultural events, today’s libraries connect communities to information, inspiration, and each other.

An initiative of the American Library Association, Library Card Sign-up Month has been held each September since 1987 to mark the beginning of the school year, combat illiteracy, and encourage communities everywhere to explore all the offerings that having a library card unlocks. Today, thousands of public libraries and schools nationwide participate in the month-long celebration each fall.

This year’s theme, “A Library Card Hits All the Right Notes,” is a reminder that libraries offer something for everyone—no matter your age, background, or goals. Whether you’re checking out a classic story or trying something new, seeking harmony at the library’s programs, finding your focus in a study room or vibing out in a cozy nook, or composing your future with new skills, there’s a seat in the front row at the library for you, and your library card is the ticket.

At Prince William Public Libraries, you can:

Challenge your creative range in PWPL’s makerspaces. Located at Bull Run Library, Central Library, and coming to Chinn Park in January 2027, makerspaces are independent workspaces that offer a range of machines, tools, and technology for exploring, building, collaborating, and creating. PWPL’s makerspaces are designed for patrons aged 13 and older.

Check out the newly launched Library of Things—a growing collection of useful, fun, and unexpected items available to borrow, including tools, games, musical instruments, and more.

Relax with one of the many titles in PWPL’s catalog. Whether you like to hold a physical book, read an e-book, or listen to an audiobook, any form will be music to your ears.

Take a beat; there’s so much to explore in the Digital Library, with free access to digital resources, including newspapers, free online tutoring, and language learning tools.

Enjoy note-worthy programs and events for all ages—from story times and book clubs to local genealogy and tech help.

Getting a library card is free, easy, and empowering. For students, it’s a key to academic success. For adults, it’s a gateway to lifelong learning. For everyone, it’s a smart way to stay connected to your community.

Special Library Card Sign-up Month activities:

Library Card DIY

Teens/Adults
Manassas City: Saturday, Sept. 12, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Dale City: Sept. 21, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Decorate photocard holders to keep your library card safe and looking nice. Stickers, jewels, colorful paper, and other supplies will be provided to customize your card holder.

DIY Bedazzled Library Cards: Montclair