More than books: What a library card at Iredell County Library can do for you.
For Iredell County residents, a library card can open the door to free entertainment, educational resources, community programs, digital services and even items that go beyond traditional library materials. September is National Sign Up for a Library Card Month and Lake Norman Record sat down with Jenny Levins-Hertel to learn more about library cards.
“It is a tool that every county resident should have if you’re over the age of five,” said Levins-Hertel.
Iredell County Public Library offers access to books, e-books and audiobooks, but its collection has expanded to include a growing library of Things. Patrons can check out gardening kits, soil testers, state park passes, disc golf and pickleball equipment, hotspots, Chromebooks and other resources. The library is also developing collections that include kitchen appliances and other practical items that patrons may need to borrow rather than purchase.
How do I get a library card?
Signing up for a library card is free, with certain qualifications. These qualifications include:
Be over the age of five years old.
Live in Iredell County.
Own property or a business in Iredell County.
Iredell County Employee, even if you do not live in Iredell County.
If you are not from Iredell County, it is a $20 fee for a card for a year. It allows you to check out physical and online media just the same as if you lived in Iredell County.
To sign up for a library card, visit any of the Iredell County Library branches, including the Mobile Library. Bring a photo ID that has a current address or if you do not have a current address on photo ID, bring a bill or a piece of mail to verify residency. It is a five minute sign up process and patrons can use the card the same day to the full affect.
What is offered to children, teens and young adults?
Iredell County Library has a range of activities and learning opportunities for babies, toddlers, children and teens. There are various programs for toddlers and children, including 1,000 books before Kindergarten, Pre-K Play and story time hour.
In addition, Iredell County Library holds monthly family nights that take place at all library branches. For school age children, Discovery Club focuses on STEAM activities (science, technology, engineering and math). Check out the kids book clubs here.
For teens and young adults, there are a variety of book clubs available for patrons to explore. “For teens, we focus a lot on more social aspects. We do a lot of crafting where teens can sit down, chat with friends and have fun,” said Levins-Hertel.
For those who may be interested in board or card games, anime discussions, screen printing and Dungeons and Dragons, there are opportunities for teens and young adults to mingle and share their interest in the fandoms. Check out the teen book clubs here.
What is offered for adults?
Iredell County Library has several adult book clubs, including a ‘What are you reading?’ book club where members are encouraged to come in and discuss what they have been reading since the last meeting.
From Morbidly Curious bookclub to Classics on the Rocks, there are book clubs far and wide for all readers in Iredell County. In addition to book clubs, crafting clubs are available for patrons including painting, needle and hook, and more.
The library also offers support through its Community Navigator who helps patrons connect with resources available throughout the community. Patrons can meet with the Community Navigator when he is at the library or schedule an appointment for assistance with finding housing, health care, employment and other community services. The library also supports the community through its kindness closet and food pantry. The kindness closet, located in the library’s restrooms, provides free basic hygiene and personal care items, while the library’s Blessing Box outside offers food and other necessities to those who need them.
How can public libraries help students?
The library provides a variety of resources to support students and lifelong learners. Through its Student Access program, the library works directly with Iredell-Statesville Schools and Mooresville Graded School District to provide students with free, automatic library cards using their student numbers. Iredell-Statesville Schools students can also have books sent directly to their school media centers, making it easier to access materials.
Through the library’s digital resources, students and community members can access online databases for homework help, independent study, practice tests and test preparation, with resources available to check out and use online. The library also offers access to online courses that allow users to learn new languages and skills. While these courses are not accredited, they provide opportunities for education, personal development and exploring new interests.
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