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www.duluthmn.gov
218-730-4236
SUBJECT: Duluth Public Library and Duluth Public School Launch Port Card Program to Reduce Barriers and Expand Access for ISD709 Students
BY: Elizabeth Spehar
[DULUTH, Minn.] The Duluth Public Library and Duluth Public Schools are collaborating to expand access to public library resources for Duluth's students with the Port Card program. Port Cards are electronic library cards that enable all ISD709 students to borrow books and other materials from the Duluth Public Library by simply punching their student ID number into a keypad when they check out.
With the Port Card program, the library seeks to remove barriers to access and make it easier for kids to borrow physical and electronic materials. "The Port Card program reduces barriers to access, promotes students' success, and sends the message to youth that they are supported by their community," says DPL Youth Services Supervisor Bri Belanger. "We wanted to make this program easy to use and risk-free to students and families. There is no physical card to lose, and, thanks to the library's 'Fresh Start' program, there are no fines or fees," Belanger explains.
Students can use their Port Card to check out books, magazines, DVDs, CDs, toys, and language kits when they visit the library. They can also use Port Cards to access Duluth Public Library's digital resources while at school, giving educators an opportunity to integrate those resources into their teaching. "From a teacher's perspective, Port Cards are awesome. They provide equitable student access to the public library's extensive collection of physical books, ebooks, audiobooks, and research materials all year around for pleasure reading and for research," notes ISD709 Media Specialist Cindy Miller.
Along with traditional library materials and concepts, such as early childhood literacy and books, Miller points to additional resources for older students to utilize as they prepare to enter the work force, trades, or secondary education. "Our high schoolers will benefit from other library tools such as after school homework help and writing labs, help with resumes, job search support, and job interview help."
Port Cards are now available for use by students at all three Duluth Public Library locations and in Duluth Public Schools. To learn more about Port Cards, visit https://duluthlibrary.org/library-cards/port-cards/
CONTACT INFORMATION
Bri Belanger, Youth Services Supervisor
(218) 730-4219
Elizabeth Spehar, Library Communications
(218) 730-4236