Downers Grove, IL – April 3, 2024 – The Downers Grove Public Library’s (DGPL) Student Library Card program will make library cards available to all students in District 58 as part of an intergovernmental agreement recently signed between the two entities.
During District 58’s registration process, parents can sign their students up to receive a library card. Students will receive their library cards for the 2024-2025 school year. Student Library Cards may be used in the same way as a regular library card, providing access to books, research databases, and study room spaces. “I am so glad that this partnership can further our already strong partnership with District 58. Thousands of children will receive their very own library card which will give them access to all of the amazing physical and digital resources the library offers. In addition, teachers will be able to use these resources in their classrooms to supplement and enhance their lessons,” said DGPL Children’s Services Manager Allyson Renell.
The initiative is made possible through an amendment of Public Act 102-0843 (Cards for Kids Act Expansion) which allowed the DGPL Board of Trustees to waive registration fees for children under 18 who live outside of a library district. For example, in District 58, there are approximately 400 students who live in unincorporated Downers Grove. The Downers Grove Public Library will coordinate library card registration with area libraries on behalf of District 58 students who live in municipalities such as Woodridge, Westmont, and Oak Brook.
Specifically, the intergovernmental agreement allows District 58 to share student registration information with the library. During the District 58 registration process for 2024-25, parents were asked if they would like to opt into the program. No other data, other than registration information, will be shared between the two entities, and cards will not be created for students without parental consent.
“The Downers Grove Library plays an exceptionally strong role in supporting our schools and students,” said Assistant Superintendent for Technology and Learning James Eichmiller. “Access to libraries, books, and research is essential for all children, and this helps level the playing field for those who don’t have access to a library or library card,” he said. It can also help reduce the “summer slide” for students and create formidable reading opportunities and habits for young students as they grow into adulthood.
The District 58 Board of Education approved the agreement March 11, 2024. The Downers Grove Library approved it February 28, 2024.
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About the Downers Grove Public Library: The Downers Grove Public Library welcomes everyone to discover, grow, play, and learn. The library is located at 1050 Curtiss St. Downers Grove, IL 60515. Learn more at dglibrary.org