Press Release, James Blackstone Memorial Library

Celebrate Library Card Sign-up Month this September with the libraries of The Sound’s coverage area: James Blackstone Memorial Library in Branford, the Willoughby Wallace Memorial Library in Stony Creek, Atwater Memorial Library in North Branford, and Edward Smith Library in Northford, along with the American Library Association! We're inviting everyone to discover the incredible resources and opportunities available at your local library by signing up for a library card.

This year, we’re thrilled to have Optimus Prime from the Tranformers as our special ambassador, highlighting that there's more than meets the eye at Branford and North Branford libraries. Whether you're looking to enhance your skills, find valuable information, or connect with fellow avid readers, a library card unlocks a world of possibilities.

Today’s libraries are vibrant community centers offering much more than just books. At all four of your local libraries, you'll find diverse programs, job search assistance, homework help, book clubs, story times, meeting space, and more.

Curious about exploring a new hobby or learning a new language? Your Branford card has the resources you need. Try Creativebug or Transparent Language (accessible via blackstonelibrary.org, good with any Branford library card) for digital learning opportunities. If you’re interested in learning more about your family history, visit the North Branford Libraries to access Ancestry or FamilySearch, our two genealogy digital resources.

Did you know that Blackstone offers an expanded Library of Things, where you can borrow a Nintendo Switch, lawn games, sewing machines, electric guitar, and more? At Willoughby Wallace, you have access to our Keyes Gallery with local art exhibits changing monthly, Notaries Public, and Passport Acceptance Services (you cannot get a U.S. Passport without seeing an agent). In North Branford, book clubs can check out our book discussion kits and our Read Between the Vines Book Club, held at Rose Vineyards and Winery, is open to everyone. Patrons also have access to bestselling author talks through the Library Speakers Consortium.

How do you get a library card? Stop in at either library and show your photo ID and proof of Branford residence, and get a card made up on the spot – for free! Residents of Stony Creek will receive a Willoughby Wallace card, and all other residents receive a Blackstone card. Both cards get access to the same resources. Any North Branford resident who verifies their identity and provides proof of residency may receive a free library card. There is no minimum age to get a library card, but approval from a parent or legal guardian is required for children under the age of 12. Educators in North Branford are also eligible to sign up for a teacher card with extended loan periods.

You can use your card at all four libraries, anytime, but also at any library throughout the state of Connecticut. Just have your library card with you when you visit a new location. All four libraries belong to the LION consortium which shares materials (both physical and digital) among 35 libraries spanning from Woodbridge to Norwich! There is free delivery to all locations, so you don’t have to go far to take advantage of the shared items.

Branford’s James Blackstone Memorial Library at 758 Main Street is open Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Sundays, 1 to 4 p.m. (September-May). In Stony Creek, the Willoughby Wallace Memorial Library, 146 Thimble Islands Road, is open Monday-Thursday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sundays, 1-4 p.m., year-round. North Branford’s Atwater Memorial Library at 1720 Foxon Road, and Northford’s Edward Smith Library at 3 Old Post Road, are open Monday-Thursday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m; and Sundays (November-March) from 1 to 4 p.m.

Stop in to any one of these libraries and see what you’ve been missing!