MONROE COUNTY PROCLAIMS SEPTEMBER AS LIBRARY CARD SIGN-UP MONTH

MONROE COUNTY, FL – The Monroe County Board of County Commissioners proclaimed September 2026 as Library Card Sign-up Month, recognizing the important role public libraries play in education, opportunity, lifelong learning, and preserving the history of the Florida Keys.

The Florida Keys are home to South Florida’s oldest public library, with roots dating back to 1892. Monroe County established a countywide public library system in 1959, with branches serving residents in Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon, Big Pine Key, and Key West.

Libraries provide residents with access to books, technology, early literacy programs, digital resources, job-seeking tools, educational opportunities, and other services that support students, families, entrepreneurs, and creators. The Monroe County Public Library also operates the Florida Keys History Center, which preserves documents and photographs that tell the story of the Keys for future generations.

“A library card is much more than access to books. It opens the door to technology, learning, history, and resources available to everyone in our community,” said Monroe County Mayor Michelle Lincoln. “Library Card Sign-up Month is a great reminder for residents to visit their local branch and see everything our libraries have to offer.”

Monroe County residents who do not already have a library card are encouraged to sign up at their local branch this month. Visit keyslibraries.org for more information.

Need another reason to love your library?

• $1.5 million saved: Library patrons have saved an estimated $1.5 million so far this year by borrowing books and DVDs instead of purchasing them.
• 150,000 digital checkouts: Patrons borrowed approximately 150,000 eBooks, audiobooks and digital magazines through the Libby app during the past 12 months.
• 50 million photo views: Images from the Florida Keys History Center’s online photo archive have been viewed more than 50 million times.
• 92,000 program attendees: Approximately 92,000 people attended programs at Monroe County Public Library locations last year.