Hannibal library promoting Library Card Sign-Up Month during September

HANNIBAL, Mo. — September is Library Card Sign-up Month, a time when Hannibal Free Public Library joins the American Library Association and libraries nationwide to remind parents, caregivers and students that signing up for a library card is the first step on the path to academic achievement and lifelong learning.

Through access to technology, media resources and educational programs, a library card gives students the tools to succeed in the classroom and provides people of all ages opportunities to pursue their dreams and passions.

Libraries offer everything from early literacy programs to online resources for homework help. The Hannibal Free Public Library offers a variety of educational resources and activities, including free downloadable ebooks and eaudiobooks. 

“Libraries play an important role in the education and development of children,” said Amber Cooley, children’s associate. “We have library programs that serve students of all ages and backgrounds such as ‘Babies and Books,’ ‘Read and Glue Story and Craft Time,’ ‘Preschool Story Time’ and ‘Teen Night.’” 

Hannibal Free Public Library continues to adapt and expand services to meet the evolving needs of the community. To learn how to sign up for a library card or to learn more about the library’s resources and programs, call during normal business hours at 573-221-0222. Hannibal Free Public Library is open Monday and Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Wednesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.  The library is closed on Sunday.  

Marley Dias, founder of #1000BlackGirlBooks, author and executive producer, is taking on a new role as honorary chair of Library Card Sign-Up Month. She will promote the value of libraries and encourage everyone to get their own library card. Hannibal Free Public Library will host a Library Card Sign-Up month celebration concurrently with a Missouri Bicentennial Scavenger Hunt celebration. Children can decorate Missouri’s birthday cake, complete Missouri Bicentennial crafts and show off library cards for an incentive prize.

Library Card Sign-up Month has been held each September since 1987 to mark the beginning of the school year. The ALA and libraries work together in a national effort to ensure every child signs up for their own library card. 

For more information, call the library at 573-221-0222 or visit its website.