MENDOCINO CO., 9/4/25 – September is national Library Card Sign-Up Month and libraries across Mendocino County are encouraging residents to sign-up to take advantage of the many offerings a single library card provides.
According to Mendocino County Library, which operates six public libraries, there are countless ways to benefit a library card, hence the library’s celebratory theme “One Card, Endless Possibilities.”
“A library card equals access to information,” said Mellisa Hannum, the county’s head librarian. “They help promote literacy and open doors to imagination and critical thinking.”
Hannum cites the library’s partnership with the Mendocino County Office of Education to offer Student Success Cards. The program provides over 11,300 public school students with library access and special programming.
But it’s not just the students that benefit – all Mendocino County residents can enjoy the benefits of a free library card.
“Whether you’re diving into a new hobby, searching for your next great read, brushing up on tech skills, or helping your child succeed in school, it all starts with a library card,” the library said.
In addition to loaning books, movies and music, Mendocino County Library branches also offer virtual author talks, online tutoring, tools to learn foreign languages, U.S. citizenship courses, story times, teen game nights, and tech assistance for older adults.
The library system also offers library book, music and movie rentals by mail for residents who cannot make it into the physical library.
The celebration of library cards comes at a time of funding uncertainty for the library system, which in May announced it would reduce some services due to a decrease in Measure O tax revenue.
Other items are also available for loan at local libraries, including everything from radon detectors and garden tools to hiking equipment and at-home science kits.
Card holders can also borrow a California State Library Parks Pass, which provides free access to over 200 state parks.
Library cards are free and easy to get. Applications are available online and at local libraries in Laytonville, Covelo, Point Arena, Ukiah, Fort Bragg and Willits. More information is available at https://www.mendolibrary.org/about/support/get-a-library-card.