This September, Berks County libraries are encouraging everyone to stop by their local library to register for a library card as part of Library Card Sign-up Month. Local libraries include the Boone Area Library, 129 N. Mill St., Birdsboro, and the Village Library, 207 Walnut St., Morgantown.

From borrowing books, e-books and audiobooks to getting homework help, learning new skills, or attending a book club or story time, a library card helps people access many opportunities.

Since 1987, Library Card Sign-up Month has been held each September to mark the beginning of the school year. During the month, the American Library Association and libraries work together in a national effort to ensure every child signs up for his or her own library card, but everyone - regardless of age - is encouraged to sign up.

A standard Berks County Public Libraries card is available to anyone who lives, works or goes to school in Berks County and allows cardholders to borrow from more than 1 million materials in the shared countywide catalog; download thousands of e-books and e-audiobooks; access subscription tools, including genealogy and investment research; and utilize public access computers and Microsoft Suite programs.

These and other services are available free to library cardholders. Those who lost their library card can receive a free replacement by visiting any of the 23 Berks County Public Libraries locations. For more information, visit http://www.berkslibraries.org.