More than 8,200 Washington County students will receive new library accounts thanks to a collaboration between Tigard Public Library, Tualatin Public Library, the Tigard-Tualatin School District (TTSD), and the Washington County Cooperative Library Service (WCCLS). Students in kindergarten through fifth grade will receive library cards in the mail, while students in grades six through 12 can access library resources using their student IDs.
“We want to ensure that every student in the district has access to the tools they need to be successful,” said Tigard Public Library Director Halsted Bernard. “These new library accounts allow students to have that access in the ways that work best for them- whether that means coming into our libraries, checking out eBooks online, or getting live, on-demand homework help. The flexibility of access is paramount.”
Research has shown the link between library use and student success, with higher circulation of children’s library books correlating with higher reading scores.
“Each new library account is an invitation to not only check out books, but also attend events in-person and virtually and embrace the joy of learning through crafts, art projects, and science experiences,” said Tualatin Public Library Director Jerianne Thompson. “We hope that these new accounts will make it even easier for families in our area to make the library part of their lives.”
The new library accounts will allow students to check out up to five physical books from any public library in Washington County, as well as accessing eBooks, homework help, streaming video, and more through WCCLS’s online services. All WCCLS libraries are overdue fine-free, so families don’t need to worry about additional expenses due to library visits.
Families that decide they would like to access DVDs, games, and other library resources, or who would like to check out up to 100 items
at a time can upgrade their student cards at any WCCLS library at no cost. Students who already have WCCLS library cards can continue using them without interruption.
“We hope TTSD students will build relationships with their local libraries that will continue throughout their lives. Libraries not only help with scholastic and career success, but also offer opportunities for creativity, connection, and recreation,” Bernard said.
By taking this step, TTSD joins the Beaverton and Hillsboro School Districts in ensuring public library access to all students. WCCLS library cards are free to all Washington County residents, and they can be used at all 16 Washington County libraries.
Tualatin Public Library’s mission is to empower and enrich our community through learning, discovery, and interaction. For more information about the services and programs at Tualatin Public Library, visit tualatinoregon.gov/library.
