Public libraries are one of the Twin Cities’ greatest free resources for families and one of the most reliable and welcoming spaces we share. On hot summer days, they offer cool air and quiet corners. Rainy afternoons bring a dry place to land. On freezing winter mornings, they offer warmth and steady routine. In every season, libraries create space for learning, connection, and discovery — and a library card is your family’s key to all of it.
March is National Reading Month, which makes this the perfect time to take one simple step that can shape your family’s literacy journey all year long: get a library card for everyone in your household!
A library card is more than a card. It is access. It is independence. Above all, it is belonging.
Why Library Cards Matter
The American Library Association’s Every Child Ready to Read program, developed with the Public Library Association, confirms that early library experiences support school readiness and lifelong learning habits. When children have their own library cards, reading becomes personal. They are able to choose books that reflect their interests and curiosity.
Libraries across the Twin Cities offer storytimes, early literacy programming, homework help, digital books, and welcoming spaces for families. Way to Grow Family Educators often encourage families to build regular library visits into their routines, strengthening literacy from pregnancy through third grade.
Family Educator Maria loves including library visits in her work.
“One of my first questions to families when they join our program is if they are members of the library. When the answer is ‘no,’ it is my commitment to connect them with this powerful resource. Many families come from countries where access to libraries is very scarce and limited to rich people only.”
Make It a Family Milestone
Getting a library card can be a small celebration.
At Hennepin County Library and Saint Paul Public Library, children can receive a card with a parent or guardian present. Requirements vary by system; most ask for a photo ID and proof of address for the adult signing. Parents or guardians are typically required to sign for younger children. Check your local branch for specific age and ID requirements.
Consider making it a family outing during National Reading Month. Apply together. Take a photo. Let each child check out their own stack of books and carry them proudly to the car or bus.
Libraries to Explore in the Twin Cities
Here are a few library systems serving families across our region:
- Hennepin County Library (cards also available online)
- Saint Paul Public Library
- Ramsey County Library
- Dakota County Library
- Anoka County Library
- Washington County Library
Each system offers storytimes, reading challenges, online resources, and events for children and caregivers. Check your nearest branch for hours and programming.
A Year-Round Routine
During National Reading Month, we celebrate books. Weekly or twice-monthly visits to the library create rhythm. Children begin to expect that reading is part of everyday life.
Pack a snack for after your visit. Walk or ride together. Let the trip feel like an outing, not an errand.
Did You Know?
Your library card opens the door to much more than books. Here are just some of the resources Twin Cities library systems offer for free:
- Storytimes and early literacy programs for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers
- Digital books, audiobooks, and magazines through apps like Libby and CloudLibrary
- Free public computers, Wi-Fi, low-cost printers and copiers at every branch
- Meeting rooms and community spaces for groups of all sizes (Ramsey County Library locations offer Community Program Rooms for 10 to 120 people, free of charge with a reservation)
- One-on-one reading tutoring for K-5 students through Hennepin County Library’s Let’s Read initiative, at no cost to families
- Arts and museum access through the smART pass program, available to cardholders across all eight Twin Cities metro library systems
- Online learning tools, including GED prep, Microsoft Office skills, resume building, and more
- Community events and workshops for adults, caregivers, and families year-round
Visit your library’s website or stop in to ask what’s available. You may be surprised by what you find.
Support for Families
Way to Grow walks alongside families from pregnancy through third grade. We help build strong literacy habits at home and connect families to valuable community resources, like your local library. Learn more about enrollment today!
