Hamilton County, TN — A library card can open the door to books and much more.
Through a partnership between Hamilton County Schools and the Chattanooga Public Library, students enrolled in Hamilton County public schools can receive a free, full-access Chattanooga Public Library card. The cards are issued through schools and automatically renew each year during school registration.
For Lyn Hunter, Head Librarian of Youth Services at the Chattanooga Public Library, one of the most important things a library can do is help a young person find something they genuinely enjoy.
“It’s the cheapest and easiest way to find more stuff you love,” Hunter said. “It doesn’t have to be books. We have all kinds of things.”
That can mean discovering a new favorite author or genre, or exploring an entirely new interest or hobby.
Students and families can check out books and eBooks, educational toys and tabletop games, musical instruments from The Noise Closet, and other items through the library’s Beyond Books collections.
“A library card gives students access to so many materials for free that they might not have otherwise,” said Lee Hope, Assistant Director of Youth Services and Community Engagement at the Chattanooga Public Library.
Every library branch offers a wide variety of Pre-K-12 programs that encourage education, community and empowerment, covering topics such as STEM, art, music, theater, cooking, early literacy, and other activities for children and teens.
At the Downtown Library, students can experiment with technology and creative tools in the 4th Floor Makerspace or use The Studio to learn about music production and recording.
Many of the library’s resources don’t require a library card. Students and families can attend library programs, visit any library location, and use the 4th Floor Makerspace at the Downtown Library without a library card. Access to Makerspace equipment, software, and instruction is free, although some projects may have a cost for materials.
For students, the library can also be a place where reading doesn’t feel like an assignment.
Librarians work with young people to find books based on their individual interests rather than simply handing them a title they think they should read.
“It’s just one book. You don’t have to finish it,” Hunter said. “I’ve got a thousand more. Let’s go find one you’ll love. The point of the library is to get comfortable with books and be excited about learning something new about the world or yourself.”
The library also offers resources that can support students and families beyond the classroom.
They offer many programs and resources specifically for teens, including a Prom Closet that helps students access formalwear for prom and other special events, and a Teen Advisory Board where youth ages 12-18 gain leadership experience by providing input and helping create new programs at the library. The library also has a unique Read & Ride program where students ages 5-18 can receive free CARTA bus passes by registering for the library’s reading program.
Families can find support through the library’s social services as well. A full-time social worker helps community members connect with resources, referrals, and employment assistance, while a Registered Nurse Navigator is available at the Downtown Library for basic health screenings, answers to health questions, and referrals to low- or no-cost health options.
Library access isn’t limited to students and families. Hamilton County Schools teachers can also receive free Chattanooga Public Library cards, giving educators access to books, eBooks, eAudiobooks, Makerspace resources, and other tools they can use personally and in their classrooms. Popular Makerspace resources include the large laminator and poster printer!
With five locations throughout Chattanooga, families can find library services and programs close to home, with each branch offering its own collections, activities, and community connections.
“There is something here for everyone. The library IS for everyone,” said Hope.
For Hamilton County students, families, and teachers, a library card is an invitation to explore. It can lead to a book, a hobby, a skill, a resource, or a place to belong.
For more information about Chattanooga Public Library, click HERE.
