Fayette County students to receive personalized library cards

Students who use libraries are more likely to succeed, study finds

LEXINGTON, Ky. (Sept. 14, 2015) — The Lexington Public Library has teamed with Fayette County Public Schools to distribute personalized library cards during the 2015-2016 school year. The new Student Success Card includes the student’s name and expected graduation date printed above the bar code. The program kicked off at Arlington Elementary, where about a dozen library ambassadors promoted the card to classmates.

“It’ll help in getting a good education because we can check out books,” fifth-grader Alex Halliday said after receiving a card and green canvas book bag. “Every job, you have to know how to read.”

Recent studies have shown a connection between public library use and student success in school, according to a news release from the Lexington Public Library.

In a gradual rollout, the library will distribute the new cards at Bryan Station Middle and Bryan Station High School in the coming weeks. This spring, K-12 students at all other public schools will receive their Student Success Cards. They will be able to not only check out books but also access e-books, databases, homework help and other resources.

Ann Hammond, executive director of the Lexington Public Library, and school librarian Barbara Carter gave out the first cards to the young ambassadors at Arlington. Mayor Jim Gray was also on hand for the kickoff.

“I’m excited about the opportunities it gives my kids,” Carter said. “It will open doors for them.”