ASHLAND — A library card opens a world of endless possibilities including resources and services to help people pursue their passions and to give students the tools to succeed in school and beyond.

Boyd County Public Library is joining American Library Association and libraries across the country for Library Card Sign-Up Month, a month-long effort in September to increase the number of library cardholders. Library cards are free for Boyd County residents and reciprocal borrowing agreements are in place for most counties in eastern Kentucky, as well as Cabell and Wayne counties in West Virginia and Lawrence County in Ohio.

“A library card includes access to books and so much more,” said library director Debbie Cosper. “Cardholders have free access to community events and places, video and board games, movies and music, tutoring and study programs, and foreign language programs to help them try or learn something new.”

A BCPL library card gives patrons access to checkout sporting equipment including pickleball and tennis rackets, volleyballs and basketballs and frisbee golf equipment. Adventurists can try out equipment such as metal detectors, binoculars, night vision goggles and fishing poles.

In addition, free passes are available to a variety of popular community places and events:

• Ashland Tomcat Football games

• Highlands Museum and Discovery Center

• Ashland YMCA

• Boyd County Gun Range

• Sam’s Club

• Ashland Police and Fire Department tours

• JoAnn Fabrics craft classes

To apply for a library card, applicants need to register in person at any branch and sign an application form. Proof of name and current address are required.