Library Card Sign-up Month Press Kit

September is Library Card Sign-up Month, a time to remind parents and children that a library card is the most important school supply of all.

Since 1987, Library Card Sign-up Month has been held each September to mark the beginning of the school year. During the month, the American Library Association and libraries unite in a national effort to ensure every child signs-up for their own library card.

Throughout the school year, public librarians and library staff will assist parents and caregivers with saving hundreds of dollars on educational resources and services for students. From free access to STEAM programs/activities, educational apps, in-person and virtual homework help, technology workshops to the expertise of librarians, a library card is one of the most cost-effective back-to-school supplies available.

Poster:

Poster and Bookmark Art by Marz Jr.

In 2024, ALA is teaming up with multiplatform entertainment company Skybound Entertainment and leading toy and game company Hasbro to encourage people to roll out to their libraries with the TRANSFORMERS franchise, featuring Optimus Prime, as part of Library Card Sign-Up Month in September. Read the full announcement.

Resources

Media Contact

Media interested in additional artwork sizes and/or scheduling interviews with ALA spokespersons may contact ALA Media Relations cmomedia@ala.org.

Tools for libraries are available on the Library Card Sign-up Month web page.