Children enjoy storytime under a tree in the recently renovated Moultrie library.

MOULTRIE, Ga. —Library Card Sign-Up Month reminds students, families, that libraries are the key to academic success.

This September the Moultrie-Colquitt County Library System (MCCLS) is joining the American Library Association (ALA) and libraries nationwide for Library Card Sign-Up Month, a time to remind parents, caregivers and students, that a library card is the first step towards academic achievement and lifelong learning, according to a press release from the MCCLS.

A library card opens a world of infinite possibilities through resources and services that give students the tools to succeed in school and beyond. From STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics) programs, family storytimes, and partnerships with community organizations like UGA’s Extension Service, libraries transform lives through education.

Libraries offer free and fun educational resources and activities that bring families and communities together, the local library system said. The library’s summer reading programs provide extra incentives and guidance for kids to increase vocabulary and knowledge. Talented performers provide exposure to different topics. Programs like the library’s  Escape Room challenges families to work together and sparks creativity, while rewarding innovation. SMALLab creates a kinesthetic learning environment. Adult programming attempts to connect people with information, ideas, and community.

Libraries play an important role in the education and development of children. Studies show that children who are read to in the home and who use the library perform better in school and are more likely to continue to use the library as a source of lifetime learning, the press release said. Participating in book clubs allows children to become a part of a reading community. Kids who see other kids (and adults) reading are more likely to read on their own.

“Our library programs serve students of all ages,” says Holly Phillips, MCCLS library director. “For younger children, we offer early literacy resources to help them learn to read and encourage school readiness, and for teens and older students, we provide access to technology as well as GED resources. Our library believes that books are just the beginning.”

This year, Disney and Pixar’s “Toy Story 4” characters Woody, Buzz Lightyear, Bo Peep and friends are going on adventures as honorary chairs of Library Card Sign-Up Month. In their role, they will promote the value of a library card and bring attention to the many ways libraries transform lives and communities.

Since 1987, Library Card Sign-up Month has been held each September to mark the beginning of the school year. During the month, the ALA and libraries unite in a national effort to ensure every child signs up for their own library card. For more information about how to sign up for a library card, please visit the Moultrie-Colquitt County Library or the Doerun Municipal Library in person or online at mccls.org.

The Moultrie-Colquitt County Library System includes MCCLS Headquarters, the Doerun Municipal Library, the MCCLS Bookmobile, and the Ellen Payne Odom Genealogical Library.