Free library membership can lead to lifetime of fond memories

As people get ready to turn the calendar to September, parents and caregivers across Prince Edward County are planning for another academic year – new shoes, backpacks and pencil cases.

Organizations across the community are helping to ensure everyone is well-equipped for back-to-school season. For example, Early ON PEC / the Hub has backpacks and snack bags to distribute. You can text them at 613-503-2179 or visit thehubcentre.ca to find out more about that program.

Amidst all the checklists and shopping, there’s one school supply that will make a difference far beyond this September: your public library membership.

Membership is free of charge, and opens the door to a world of opportunities for your children. In addition to the immediate benefits of providing nearly unlimited access to books, entertaining and educational library programs and play areas, introducing the public library to your young children can make a difference through their entire lifetime.

We know that children who visit the public library as kindergarten or early elementary students are more likely to see the library as a welcoming and safer place when they’re in high school and looking for a place to hang out with friends, use WIFI and spend time without spending money.

This connection can carry through their entire lives – as they become young adults, perhaps busy parents themselves, and even into adulthood and retirement. Wherever they go in life, they’ll likely be able to find a public library to welcome them, and fond memories of their childhood library are key to that connection.

If your young child is starting kindergarten for the first time, we invite them to drop into any branch of the library to pick up a free copy of The Night Before Kindergarten by Natasha Wing, while supplies last. Our thanks to the Friends of the Wellington Branch Library for supporting this initiative. This title comes highly recommended by Nancy Puddy, Friend of the Library and lead for the 1000 Books (or more) program at the library.

The book has a familiar rhythm – “T’was the night before kindergarten, and as they prepared, kids were excited, and a little bit scared” – and speaks to the mix of excitement and nerves many children feel when starting school. If you have smaller children and haven’t yet registered for the 1000 books or more program, drop into any branch to register and we’ll celebrate with you as you reach milestones such as 100, 250 or more books read.

While you’re out preparing for “back to school” this fall, drop into any branch of the library to become a library member. It only takes a few moments and can be the kickstart to a lifetime of learning, connection, and entertainment. Find all the library branch locations and hours at peclibrary.org