Every student to receive access to the library system’s resources
TRAVERSE CITY – TCAPS is pleased to announce a partnership with the Traverse Area District Library (TADL) to launch a program that will provide library card access to each of the district’s nearly 10,000 students!
“We are pleased to be able to team up with our local library system to provide additional opportunities for our students to learn, read and grow,” said Jim Pavelka, interim superintendent of Traverse City Area Public Schools. “Libraries help unlock the imaginations of young learners and lifelong learners alike. We are excited for our students and families to gain access to the library’s wealth of resources through this partnership, from online research databases to foreign language lessons to bedtime storybooks.”
“Developing a relationship with your local library in childhood is key to becoming a lifelong reader and learner. Plus the library isn't just books anymore,” said Michele P. Howard, director of the Traverse Area District Library. “We have research databases, games, musical instruments, 3D printers and more to support TCAPS students' academic success. With aligned missions, TADL is delighted to be providing resources to TCAPS students and their families.”
The goal of the program is to increase the number of students with library card access and to reduce barriers to accessing reading materials and learning resources. Under the partnership, the Traverse Area District Library will automatically provide a library card to every TCAPS student from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade.
In order to facilitate and formalize the collaboration, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was developed between the partner organizations. Since the time the MOU was originally drafted, the COVID-19 pandemic has temporarily closed both schools and libraries. Therefore, the program’s rollout has been modified to a virtual format and will offer access to the library’s online catalogue, including online books, research databases, videos, and more. In addition, families will receive the benefit of receiving a one-time removal of late fines and fees for student card holders.
Parents will receive information via email regarding how to access their child’s virtual library card and how to begin to explore TADL’s online resources and catalogue.
To learn more about TADL’s resources, visit: www.tadl.org.
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