As educators seek more creative ways to support students' learning, a key resource for schools is the local public library. Lewis County Public Library and Archives and Lewis County Schools have formed a partnership to increase student and faculty access to digital reading materials through a new digital library card program. Digital library cards provide access to thousands of age-appropriate titles for use inside the classroom, at home, and anywhere 24/7 via the Libby app.

A library card opens a world of infinite possibilities through resources and services that give students the tools they need to succeed. With digital library cards, students and faculty can now borrow classroom and recreational titles from the library's digital collection. All titles will automatically expire at the end of the lending period and there are no late fees. Readers can also download titles onto Libby for offline use. Applications have already gone home with students whose parents have the option to enroll their children in the program. The new digital library card program is already proving to be popular, as 185 students and faculty have already applied.

"We are excited to partner with Lewis County Schools to provide digital library cards in a time when access to the information and resources in public libraries is more vital than ever," stated Library Director Crystal Nash. "The biggest benefit of this partnership is that the digital card program reduces barriers. Families don't have to make a trip to the library. If a student or teacher discovers the need for a resource after hours, they will already have instant access through the Libby app."

A digital library card cannot be used to check out physical materials at the library. Students can easily upgrade their digital only card to a regular library card by visiting the library with a parent or legal guardian. As part of the library and archives' commitment to reducing barriers and increasing access to materials, students and teachers can borrow digital materials even if they have had a library card in the past and forgot to return an item or have late fees.

The entire Hohenwald community can also read or listen to the library and archives' complete e-book, e-audiobook, and digital magazine collection with a valid library card and the Libby app. The digital collection includes bestsellers and new releases. Readers can select from virtually any subject ranging from mystery, romance, children's, business, and more. Libby can be used on any major device or computer, including Apple®, Android™, and Chromebook™. Through Libby, readers can also "send to Kindle®." For more information about the digital card program or the Libby app, contact the Lewis County Public Library and Archives.