September is Library Card Sign-up Month, and it’s “Game On” at the Rock Island Public Library with sports-themed promotions, community card drives, and incentives for signing up or renewing a Rock Island card all month. 

Any Rock Island or Milan-Blackhawk Area Library District resident who applies or renews their card in September receives a sports stress ball, and one entry for a choice of four prize baskets: Hello Fall, Minecraft, Stress Less, or Game On collections. Starting in September, Rock Island Library cardholders may also choose between carrying the 150^th anniversary commemorative card or the standard card design. A My First Library Card design is also available for cardholders under age 5. RIPL cardholders who have lost their non-expired library card can also get a new one at no charge during September. 

“Though Library Card Sign Up Month is intentionally set during back-to-school season, a library card equips all ages for success,” said Christina Nobiling, director of Circulation Services at the Rock Island Public Library. “Library cards give readers and pre readers access to resources they need to become lifelong learners, and the library is alive with ideas, events, and opportunities for all ages.” 

During Library Card Sign-Up Month, Rock Island Public Library encourages residents to tell a friend about the benefits of being a cardholder. Fall is a great time to explore all the library has to offer, including new children’s books, fall bestsellers, specialized homework and home learning services, and free programs for all ages. In addition to books, other print-based materials, music, and movies, a Rock Island Public Library card connects its holder to technology, electronic research databases, online learning and homework assistance, cultural passes, and a growing collection of Library of Things. 

Gain a New Start with Fine Free Fridays in September

To give existing cardholders a new start on using the library, the Rock Island Public Library will also offer “Fine Free Fridays” in September. The promotion will waive late (overdue) fines on traditional library materials returned at Rock Island Public Library locations on Friday, Sept. 2, 9, 16, 23, and 30. Specialized items, such as culture passes, streaming devices, and hotspots are not included. Fine forgiveness applies only to late charges. Damages, item replacement, and other fees remain the patron’s responsibility. 

Patrons of all ages can find a variety of educational activities this month, including a resume workshop, children’s story times, Star Wars trivia game, Banned Books Week reading, book clubs, preschooler art, crafts, an Illinois Presents online author event with Marlee Matlin, Rock Island Arsenal history, and a Family Bingo Night, among others. 

To sign up or renew a library card online, please visit "Get a Card" at the library website. The Rock Island Library will also offer special card drives at several public events, including the Vintage Football game on Sept. 10, the Greek Fest on Sept. 16, and the Rock Island High School home football game on Sept. 30. Look for the Rock Island Library2Go bookmobile, and get a card on site! To apply in person, bring a photo ID with your current address. (If your ID is not current, bring a second form of ID with your home address.) 

The Rock Island Library turns 150 years old on November 25, 2022, and since its beginning, has continued to adapt and expand services to meet evolving community needs. Rock Island Library cardholders may also use their cards at other Illinois public libraries in the Quad Cities on checkouts of physical items. Digital services are limited to cardholders of the subscribing library. Illinois Quad City public libraries are part of the PrairieCat online network. 

Every September, the Rock Island Public Library joins the American Library Association (ALA) in reminding learners of all ages that signing up for a library card is the first step on a path to academic achievement and lifelong learning. Since 1987, Library Card Sign-up Month has been held each September to mark the back-to-school season. 

For more information about library events and services, visit the library website, call 309-732-7323 (READ,) or follow library social media pages.