Residents looking for a fun and colorful library card can now enjoy 10 new library card designs available at the Santa Clarita Public Library. The new, limited edition library card collection features art from local youth and a variety of community landmarks.

In an effort to encourage youth and families to participate in their local library, the Santa Clarita Public Library hosted its first annual Bookmark Design Contest, which received over 230 entries from student artists in Kindergarten through 12th grade. One winning design from each of the four grade levels was chosen for a bookmark, while other designs were used to create new library cards.

“The library means different things to every resident and we’re excited to offer a variety of cards that reflect our community’s love for books and personal connection with the Santa Clarita Public Library,” commented City Librarian Ed Kieczykowski.

In less than 10 months since the opening of Santa Clarita Public Library, the City has issued over 47,000 library cards to community members. A Santa Clarita Public Library card provides access to a variety of resources and services. In addition to borrowing materials, a library card can be used to reserve computers, download digital media, search hundreds of electronic databases, and more.

For patrons receiving their first library card, the new card is free, but existing patrons wanting a new card must pay a $1 replacement fee. The new cards will be offered at all locations beginning Friday, April 13, 2012.

To receive a new library card visit any of the City’s three branches located in Canyon Country, Newhall and Valencia. Community members will need to show either a valid California Driver License with a current address or two forms of identification, one showing their identity and the other indicating a mailing address in California.

For more information about the new Santa Clarita Public Library System or to obtain a library card, contact the City’s library hotline at (661) 259-8942 or visit www.SantaClaritaLibrary.com.