I received my first library card when I was 4 years old, signing my name in big, shaky letters. My mom still has that card, tucked away in her cedar chest.

To her, it was a milestone in her daughter’s life. To me, it was the key to unlock travel, adventure and discovery.

My first tiny library served as a community hub for our small town; its meeting room was usually full, story time was a big hit and kids gathered to study after school. It was where I read countless books, studied with friends and researched school projects.

That cozy, small-town library faded once I walked into the library at The University of Memphis with its massive towers of books, known as “the stacks.” I did research there, but my study time moved to the more welcoming public library branches in the city.

As a military spouse, I moved across the country several times, crisscrossing states, moving from one Army post to the next. The library was always one of my first stops. Everything you need to feel at home in a new place can be found at the library – resources, community, and connection.

Libraries have come a long way since those early days of card catalogs, stamped check-out cards and microfiche. Today’s libraries mix books with makerspaces, community rooms, business resources, classes, programs, databases and so much more. Their digital resources include music, movies, audiobooks and eBooks. People can access libraries online, from anywhere in the world. They can join book clubs, learn new skills, pick up a hobby, or meet people with similar interests. They can explore different languages, learn about other cultures and find resources to start or grow their own businesses.

Here in El Paso County, Pikes Peak Library District serves as the heart of the community. Its 14 locations house our regional history (downtown at Penrose Library), include three historic Carnegie libraries (Manitou Springs and Old Colorado City libraries, as well as the Regional History & Genealogy department at Penrose Library), and host thousands of meetings, study groups, and book club enthusiasts. PPLD processes more than 15,000 holds per week and manages a robust collection of materials.

It is challenging to name a service not offered by the library. Yoga? Check. Audio studio to record podcasts? Check. 3D printers and engraving machines? Check. eBooks, audiobooks, newspapers, and magazines? Check, check and check. Databases that allow businesses to find their target audiences and critical budgeting tools? Also available at the library. Online practice tests for the SAT and ACT? We have them. Live online tutors? Yes, we have those as well. Resources for school projects and research papers? At the Library and online, all at no cost.

The library is one of the few places in our community where people can find a place to belong without paying to participate. You don’t even need a library card to enter but having one unlocks a world of things for checkout. And all you need to get your library card is an ID showing you are a resident of El Paso County (or your ID plus an official document that shows your address such as a bill).

September is Library Card Sign-up Month, so now is a great opportunity to explore what the Library District has to offer. Get a card, connect with your community, learn a new craft, read a new book, and more, all at your Library. And remember, YOU belong at the library.

Amy Gillentine is the Director of PR, Marketing and Promotions at Pikes Peak Library District. Besides reading, she loves to hike, travel, and explore Colorado. Reach her at (719)531-6333, x6266 or at agillentine@ppld.org.