The San Diego Public Library (SDPL) is launching a new program to support early literacy development and foster a lifelong love of reading. Starting Jan. 18, children under the age of five can sign up for My First Library Card, a special library card designed just for them.

“We know that reading to children at a young age improves their future literacy,” said Library Director Misty Jones. ”The My First Library Card program builds on that knowledge by introducing children to the library at an early age and setting them up to be readers for life.“   

My First Library Card features SDPL’s mascot Odi the Coyote reading in front of a stack of books. To get a card, children and their parents or guardians can visit any SDPL location offering services. When they enroll in the program, kids will receive the library card, an opportunity to take their picture in front of an Odi frame and, while supplies last, a copy of the Odi’s Library Day book and an Odi stuffed animal.

While at the library, children can also sign up for SDPL’s 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten program. The program encourages parents and caregivers to read 1,000 books before children start school. Reading can be tracked online or on paper reading logs and children earn prizes along the way.

For more information on My First Library Card and available library services, visit the SDPL webpage.