ESCANABA — 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, the Escanaba Public Library is joining the American Library Association (ALA) and libraries nationwide for Library Card Sign-up Month. Signing up for a free library card not only encourages parents, caregivers and students to save them money, but also allows them to reap rewards in academic achievement and lifelong learning.

Whether it’s providing free access to STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) programs, educational apps, in-person and virtual homework help, or technology workshops, a library card is one of the most cost effective back-to-school supplies. Resources at the Escanaba 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,” said Library Director Carolyn Stacey. “Story hours expose young children to the joy of reading and encourage school readiness, while older children have access to technology and digital tools such as the Michigan eLibrary and the help from library staff to use those resources.”

During September, the Escanaba Public Library will feature several activities, including the “My Library is Incredible” campaign, developed by the ALA. Starting Sept. 1, stop into the library to tell us what you love about your library and be entered to win an “Incredibles” Lego set for the kids or a local gift card for teens and adults.

The Escanaba Public Library is located at 400 Ludington St. in downtown Escanaba. For more details about library card sign-up month, call 906-789-7323. You can also visit the library’s website at www.escanabalibrary.org, or find us on Facebook.