SEPTEMBER IS LIBRARY CARD SIGN-UP MONTH AT THE WILLIAMSBURG REGIONAL LIBRARY

With shelves chock-full of books, magazines, videos and music CDs, computer labs, homework help centers and more, today's "new library" is a far cry from what many parents remember.

Library Card Sign-up Month in September is a reminder that today - more than ever - a library card connects children to a range of resources that makes doing a term paper a far different task than when their parents were kids.

"Finding information today is a whole different ballgame - one that requires knowing how to use both print and computer resources. Our children must be able to do it all if they are to succeed in the next century," says Ann K. Symons, president of the American Library Association and a school librarian.

"It's important that parents and other adults learn about new resources like the Internet so they can help guide children and find helpful information for themselves."

According to the American Library Association, more than two-thirds of the nation's 9,000 public library systems now offer computers and access to the Internet to the public. Symons noted that learning to use the Internet can be a fun activity for parents and children to share as well as a learning experience.

The Williamsburg Regional Library encourages members of the community to sign up for a library card this month in order to discover the vast array of resources available to them, including free Internet access, at our two locations and on our Bookmobile. Children who sign up for a library card in September will receive an Arthur sticker, Arthur bookmark and a Pokemon card. Adults will be entered in a weekly drawing with first, second and third prizes. The prizes include $20.00 giftcards to Target, Williamsburg Regional Library tote bags and Williamsburg Regional Library travel mugs.

Apply for a library card at one of our libraries by bringing in a picture identification and proof of current address to either library's Check Out desk. Most patrons use a driver's license, but if you have just moved here, you can use a utility bill, lease agreement, or other correspondence to show current address. Children may be identified by a parent or guardian with picture ID and proof of current address. One library card entitles you to check out and return books at either location. You may also apply for a library card online at the following address:

http://www.wrl.org/depts/circ/applycard.html

(You must pick up your card within 30 days.)

Any person residing in, working in, retired from, attending school in or owning property in the Commonwealth of Virginia may be issued a library card free of charge. If you have any questions, please call (757) 259-7753 to speak with Circulation staff.

Cool Arthur bookmarks to print, cut and paste!