*This post was updated 8/31/2021
Guest blog by Christian Knoll
September is Library Card Sign Up Month, and there is no better time to become a member of the Poudre River Public Library District! Being a library cardholder allows you to do more than just check out books; it enables you to freely access a multitude of online resources, streaming services, and materials you would normally have to pay for.
In the spirit of Library Card Sign Up Month, here are some cool and unexpected things you can do simply by having a library card.
Online Access to Films, Music, and Audiobooks
The Library District offers its cardholders free access to an immense amount of online content and digital streaming services that normally require a paid monthly subscription. Many of these services can be accessed remotely through your personal computer or hand-held devices. In order to utilize these services, simply type in your library card number and PIN through the online portals found on the Library District’s website. Some popular services include:
Kanopy: An on-demand digital streaming service that offers users access to award-winning films and documentaries.
JSTOR: An online database that includes scholarly journals and other primary resources on a variety of topics including life sciences, arts and culture, and history.
Mango Languages: An online language learning resource that offers courses in more than 71 different languages.
For a complete list of services available online resources visit the Library District’s website.
Discounts with Local Businesses
Library card carriers also get benefits with many Fort Collins-based businesses through the Library District’s ‘Flash Your Card Program.’ As a cardholder, businesses that participate in the Flash Your Card program gives discounts on goods and services to library members. It is as easy as showing your library card! Popular business that participate in the Flash Your Card Program include Mary’s Mountain Cookies (Old Town location), The Bean Cycle, and Joy Organics.
Borrow Books, Gadgets, and Useful Materials
The Library District allows its cardholders to borrow more than just books; members may also check out useful equipment through their ‘Gadgets and Things’ collection. This initiative allows Library members to pursue fun new hobbies and interests through their collection of free-to-use equipment. Some cool and unique items you may borrow include telescopes, GoPros, musical instruments, baking pans, portable projectors, Colorado State Parks Passes, and Discover Packs for county parks. Some of these gadgets (and things) are in limited supply and tend to fly off the shelves, so remember to reserve your item in advance by placing a hold online (some items are not available for holds).
How Do I Sign Up?
Becoming a member of the Poudre River Public Library District is easy and, best of all, free! In order to sign up for a library card, visit one of the three Library locations with a valid form of photo ID and proof of a Colorado address. Anyone over the age of 12 can sign on freely, but younger library-goers must have a parent or guardian present to sign up for a library card. You can also apply for a Flex Card online, which allows you to place holds and access some online research databases for 30 days.
For more information on becoming a member of the Poudre River Public Library District visit the website or call the Answer Center at 970-221-6740.
About the author
Christian Knoll is a media specialist with a passion for creative storytelling. He possesses a multitude of interests including photography, videography, graphic design, and writing. His work has been featured on several online platforms, namely Colorado State University’s SOURCE news outlet.
Christian currently volunteers with the Poudre River Public Library District as a digital media specialist. His goals aim to inform the public about many programs and amenities the Library District offers. When he is not working, he spends his time traveling, hiking, or talking with close friends over a freshly brewed cup of coffee.
To see more of his work, visit his online portfolio.