(photo courtesy of the American Library Association)

September is Library Card Sign-Up Month, a time when the American Library Association and libraries nationwide join together to remind the public that signing up for a library card opens a world of possibilities. Libraries offer resources and services that help people pursue their passions, stretch their imagination, and succeed in school and beyond.

If you're not already, The Bucks County Free Library is a resource that you should definitely be using! In addition to the obvious (check out some new books!), the Library also offers tons of activities throughout the year. And they're FREE. Below are just a few of the cool things that you can do with a Bucks County library card.

Enjoy Free Playspaces

In addition to the scheduled activities for kids, there are plenty of other ways for kids to engage at their local library. Explore playspaces like Penn’s Little Village at the Langhorne Branch and Career Corner at the Yardley Branch. At the Doylestown Branch, the Backyard offers a beautiful outdoor space to meet with other parents and kids. The Discovery Studio at the Quakertown Branch is an interactive space for adults and children, with exhibits that change every few weeks.

Renew Your Passport

Going on a trip? The Bensalem Branch is a passport acceptance facility. Getting a passport is simple and convenient. Note that this service is by appointment only, and there are fees. Click here for more information.

Try An Instrument

Strike up the band! The library has a collection of instruments for a variety of ages, allowing you to have some fun without needing to purchase noisemakers of your own. Try the ukulele, accordion or musical washboard. Get more details here.

Receive Help Applying for a Summer Job

Do you have a high school or college student that’s looking for a job? (Or are you job hunting yourself?) Your library cards gets you access to a number of online resources with expert tutorials about the job application process, as well as resume samples and online courses. You can even get live help from an online writing instructor. Click here to learn more.

Plan a Movie Night

With so many streaming options available these days, you might forget that you can also get movies from your local library. And it’s FREE! In addition to a wide selection of DVDs to rent, your library card also allows you to stream movies, music, audiobooks, comics and TV shows using Hoopla.

Add Some Fun To Your Party

Everyone loves a party, but purchasing games and entertainment can get expensive. And then you have to store them when they’re not in use! Take your party to the next level by borrowing a karaoke machine, cornhole, jumbo checkers,  giant bowling pins, relay race games, and more. Click here for more.

Go Back to Your Roots

Want to know more about your family tree? Your library card gives you access to Ancestry.com and Heritage Quest.

The Bucks County Free Library is a 7-branch county library system with locations in Bensalem, Doylestown, Langhorne, Levittown, Perkasie, Quakertown and Yardley-Makefield. Visit your local library (and bring identification that shows your street address) to register for an account. Get more information about each location at this link.

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