The whole community benefits when more people have access to the Public Library, but for some library cardholders, there are barriers to checking out materials. The St. Joseph County Public Library (SJCPL) is introducing the Adult Access Card, a new type of library card that makes it easier for adults to start using the Library again. In celebration of National Library Card Month, the Access Card will be available starting on September 3.
SJCPL’s Adult Access Card is a flexible option that provides a second chance to inactive cardholders or a first opportunity for adults who want to limit their potential charges. With a traditional library card, charges accrue for unreturned items, and once a limit of $20 has been reached, the card becomes inactive. Some individuals have difficulty paying these charges, and this has a disproportionate impact on low income families. The Adult Access Card is a solution that allows adults to begin using their Library again.
According to Kris Springer, Customer Service Manager at the Main Library, “All it takes is for a person to move a few times, misplace a few items, and suddenly their card is inactive. We created this card for the person who felt like they were never going to be able to check anything out again. We want to invite them back and have them reconnect with the Library.”
The success of the Youth Access Card, introduced in 2016, inspired the Library to offer the same opportunity to adults. The Adult Access Card allows adults to check out 5 items at a time. This applies to all Library materials, except entertainment DVDs, books from interlibrary loans, and Studio 304 equipment. The cardholder is still responsible for returning Library materials, but with the Adult Access Card, there are no overdue or replacement charges for items not returned.
News Media Contact: Jennifer Henecke, Communications Specialist, j.henecke@sjcpl.org 574-235-4190
