LIBRARY SERVICES
During library operating hours, the library offers a webchat service through the library’s website Schertzlibrary.org, where patrons can chat live with a staff member. The library is open 7 days a week Monday - Thursday 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.; Friday - Saturday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.; and Sunday 12 p.m. - 6 p.m.
LIBRARY CARD SIGN-UP MONTH
Since 1987, Library Card Sign-up Month has been held each September to mark the beginning of the school year. During the month, the American Library Association and libraries unite in a national effort to ensure every child signs up for their own library card. Throughout the school year, public librarians and library staff will assist parents and caregivers with saving hundreds of dollars on educational resources and services for students. From free access to STEAM programs/activities, educational apps, in-person and virtual homework help, technology workshops to the expertise of librarians, a library card is one of the most cost-effective back-to-school supplies available. Marley Dias, founder of #1000BlackGirlBooks, author and executive producer, is taking on a new role as honorary chair of Library Card Sign-Up Month. This September, Dias will join the American Library Association (ALA) and libraries nationwide in promoting the power of a library card.
SCHERTZ LIBRARY FOUNDATION RECRUITING MEMBERS The Schertz Library Foundation is looking to recruit enthusiastic members. The Foundation assists the Schertz Public Library to achieve best-in-class service to Schertz and surrounding communities by providing resources over and above their annual budget. With the fundraising efforts of the Library Foundation, the library has been able to complete several projects that wouldn’t be possible otherwise. If you are interested in fundraising and want to help make your library an even better place, please stop by and complete an application.
14
Schertz Magazine
September 2021
BANNED BOOKS WEEK
Banned Books Week (September 26-October 2, 2021) is an annual event celebrating the freedom to read. Typically held during the last week of September, it spotlights current and historical attempts to censor books in libraries and schools. It brings together the entire book community — librarians, booksellers, publishers, journalists, teachers, and readers of all types — in shared support of the freedom to seek and to express ideas, even those some consider unorthodox or unpopular. This year's theme is "Books Unite Us. Censorship Divides Us." Sharing stories important to us means sharing a part of ourselves. Books reach across boundaries and build connections between readers. Censorship, on the other hand, creates barriers. The books featured during Banned Books Week have all been targeted for removal or restriction in libraries and schools. By focusing on efforts across the country to remove or restrict access to books, Banned Books Week draws national attention to the harms of censorship.
HOTSPOTS NO LONGER AVAILABLE
In partnership with Bexar County’s BiblioTech, the Schertz Public Library has been circulating hotspots for 12 months! Unfortunately, the time has come for the last of the hotspot contracts to expire. As of September 28, we will no longer have hotspots available for check-out. Many thanks to Bexar County’s BiblioTech for the opportunity to help bridge the digital divide during the pandemic. For more information, contact the library (210) 619-1700.
