As students head back to school, there is one essential school supply that requires no shopping and doesn’t cost a penny — it’s a  library card.

This September, Jackson County Public Library in Seymour, Crothersville, and Medora is joining with the American Library Association (ALA) and libraries nationwide for Library Card Sign-up Month, to encourage parents, caregivers and students to obtain a free library card that will save them money while reaping rewards in academic achievement and lifelong learning.

Whether it’s providing free access to STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) programs, educational apps, or technology assistance, a library card is one of the most cost effective back-to-school supplies. Resources at the Jackson County Public Library are available to anyone with a library card.

Libraries play an important role in the education and development of children. Studies show children who are read to in the home and who use the library perform better in school and are more likely to continue to use the library as a source of lifetime learning.

Throughout the school year, our library offers a variety of programs to stimulate an interest in reading and learning.

Storytimes expose young children to the joy of reading and encourage school readiness, while older children have access to technology and digital tools such as OverDrive, hoopla, Launchpads, and Osmo and the help from library staff to use those resources.

This year, Disney’s the Incredibles are Library Card Sign-up Month honorary chairs, helping to promote the value of a library card and bring attention to the many ways libraries and librarians transform lives and communities through education.

During September, the Jackson County Public Library is encouraging all family members to get their free card. A limited number of decorative card holders are available to all customers while supplies last in Seymour, Crothersville and Medora.

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

For information about how to sign up for a library card, visit the Jackson County Public Library in Seymour, Crothersville or Medora in person or online at myjclibrary.org.

Julia Aker is director of Jackson County Public Library.