One Card, Endless Possibilities, Explore Them All with a RIPL Card

While you can get or renew a card any day of the year, September's "One Card, Endless Possibilities," theme is a reminder that public libraries are here for everyone. No matter your age, background, goals, or reading tastes, the library collection offers multiple options. Whether you're diving into a new hobby, searching for your next great read, brushing up on tech skills, or helping your child succeed in school, it all starts with a library card.

Special offers this September include a Library Card Sign Up Month raffle open to any current or new cardholder. New sign ups and renewals are entered automatically. Existing cardholders can enter the drawing for two Circa '21 tickets by asking for the entry form. Misplaced your library card? The library is temporarily waiving the $5 fee to replace a lost card to help patrons reconnect with all the library offers.

With more than 160,000 physical items in the collection - and access to more than a million more through the PrairieCat member catalog - your RIPL card connects the community to information and inspiration. The smartest card in your wallet also helps cardholders get ahead with career and educational resources, connect to a world of online entertainment with streaming movies, TV, and music, check out one-of-a kind items with the Library of Things, and benefit from other services, such as:

• Online tutoring and homework help with Brainfuse HelpNow
• Expert buying tips and purchase ratings through Consumer Reports Online
• Cultural passes and Explore More Illinois online discounts for museums and attractions
• Sports equipment and hobby checkouts, such as badminton, Pickle Ball, and T-shirt presses
• Board games and STEAM kits for at-home fun and learning
• Free seeds through the seasonal Seed Library
• Technology help with the Book-A-Librarian service

Library users can also find engaging programs that connect them to others, build new skills and hobbies, and explore new ideas and interests. There's no library card required to attend any free library event, including book clubs, crafting classes, after school fun, lectures, and conversation times. Library visitors can also ask a librarian to help find them new reading options, and connect to the world with fast Internet and WIFI.

Explore the possibilities with special events during Library Card Sign-Up Month, including:

• Managing Stress Parenting Workshop with EveryChild, September 13, 11 am, Rock Island Watts-Midtown Branch, 2715 30^th Street.
• Your Mind Matters: Cultivating Self-Care & Resilience, September 16, 1 pm, Rock Island Downtown Library, 401 19^th Street.
• Yoga for Beginners, Movement for Mental Health, September 17, 2 pm, Rock Island Library Southwest Branch, 9010 Ridgewood Road.
• Job Searching with Brainfuse, September 22, 6:30 pm, Watts-Midtown Branch
• Starting an Illinois Business, September 23, 5:30 pm, Watts-Midtown Branch

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. The possibilities are endless!

Rock Island Public Library cards are available to eligible residents of the City of Rock Island and the Milan-Blackhawk Area Public Library District. To apply or renew, visit the library website or apply in person at any Rock Island Public Library location, including the Library2Go bookmobile. For additional questions, call 309-732-READ.