Library cards: not just a piece of plastic

Shayla Bradley - KFPL | Sep 29, 2021

I haven’t been a student for quite some time, but September still feels like a blank page in a new notebook to me. Of course, now that I have little scholars of my own, back-to-school also feels incredibly busy, which is why I’m just thinking about September now.

That’s actually a fairly good representation of my Septembers: an open book of possibilities, and, often, me wondering where exactly I left that book. My library thoughts for you this month follow both of those themes!

First: the possibilities. Our neighbours in the United States mark September as Library Card Sign-up Month. For us, Canadian Library Month comes in October, which means that, between the two, we’re right on time to talk about all of the reasons why you should have — and use — a library card. With students back to school too, there’s never been a better time to get access to materials that can help with homework, research, and after-school entertainment.

A patron of ours shared a story recently, about the exciting moment when her child signed up for his very own KFPL card.

“I was trying to tell him what a library card is beside plastic in his wallet,” she said. “Welcome to, hopefully, a lifetime of learning.”

But what does that plastic in your wallet actually do for you? So many things, as you might recall from my last writing. There are the obvious benefits to being a KFPL cardholder, including free books, eBooks, audiobooks and eAudiobooks, movies, music, magazines, online courses, park and museum passes, and event registration.

And, there are also advantages that are perhaps less tangible, but ultimately really meaningful, no matter what age you become a KFPL cardholder.

Getting that card is a moment to be proud and excited! For kids especially, this is often the first card that represents personal responsibility, and a role in the community. Public libraries are civic resources, and being a responsible cardholder is a lesson in good citizenship.

Cardholders also learn about problem-solving (can I possibly read all of these books in two weeks?), decision-making (if I can’t read them all, which one should I get right now?), and risk-free discovery (turns out I really didn’t like what I picked, but I can return it and get another one!).

And, on that note, the second half of my thoughts: what about those of us who are maybe not the best at all aspects of good library citizenship? I’m looking at you, fellow tardy book-returners. When I said I find myself wondering where, exactly, I left that book, I meant it quite literally. Lucky for me, KFPL is fine-free. All of the perks, none of the worry!

I won’t tell you all the details of exactly how many books I’ve misplaced over the years, but I can tell you that I have a lot less anxiety about it since our library went fine-free in January.

To be clear, this is not a free pass to check out an armload of materials and never bring them back. But our fine-free policies ensure that everyone can access the library, and all of those great things a KFPL card represents, without worrying about financial penalties if materials are a little bit overdue.

If you lose or damage something we’ll still assess replacement fees, and if you leave something until it’s 21 days overdue we do place a block on the account, lifted as soon as we get the items back.

So, whether you’re someone who has never returned something late in your life, or someone a little more like me, you’re equally welcome to max out your library card.

If you or a family member aren’t a cardholder yet and you want to become one, it’s as easy as dropping into your local branch. If you’re over age 16, bring identification with your name and current address. Anyone under 16 can get a card when a parent or legal guardian shows their own ID and signs for the card. If you don’t have ID with your current address, we have a few things to try — just ask at your branch, or call ahead. If you’re over 16, you can also apply online, then come into your branch with proof of address for your physical card.

What will your library journey look like? The possibilities are endless! I’d love to hear your own stories of what being a library cardholder means to you. As always, you can find me at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or (613) 549-8888, extension 3524.