September is Library Card Sign-up Month — a good reminder for parents and students that a library card is a great tool that can help develop a love of learning and academic achievement.

For parents, today’s libraries are probably much more than you remember. They’re no longer just places to check out books. Beyond being a place to read, libraries today offer free or low-cost movies and music rentals, and they allow residents to download audio and e-books with their library card. Many libraries also offer benefits like museum passes, access to advanced (and expensive) research resources like LexisNexis and computer software like the Adobe Creative Suite.

Michigan is home to hundreds of local district libraries that offer these and more resources for families to enjoy. An easy way to find your local public library is by visiting the Michigan eLibrary website at mel.org/contact and clicking “Find Your Library” for an interactive map.

In addition to finding local libraries, the Michigan eLibrary serves as another convenient resource for residents. The eLibrary provides free online access to full-text articles, books and other research materials at any time. It also has an easy-to-use interlibrary loan system.

A library card unlocks a world of knowledge and discovery, and national Library Card Sign-up Month is a great time — with school having just started back up — to make sure your family has a library card.