FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
September 10, 2024
Annual GOAL Program Underway for First Grade Students
YORK, PA – First grade students are invited to sign up for a library card through their school classrooms this month as part of York County Libraries Annual Grade One At the Library (GOAL) program. Since its inception in 2008, the GOAL program has given library cards to 44,916 York County first graders.
“Providing a library card to children in first grade expands their literacy opportunities right when they are first learning to read,” says York County Libraries President Robert F. Lambert. “As they visit the library with their families, they start to discover the many books, programs, and services that can support their educational journey.”
The annual initiative is made possible thanks to the generous support of presenting sponsor PeoplesBank, A Division of Orrstown Bank, who has championed GOAL since the program’s start. Participating students are encouraged to visit any York County library location to check out some books and pick up participation prizes. One of the top prizes is a copy of “Who Made this Mess?” written by featured GOAL author Laura Gehl. In addition to getting a copy of the book, first grade students and their families can meet the author during the GOAL Celebration event in November.
Gehl is the sixth nationally known children’s author selected to encourage York County first grade students to read. She is the author of more than forty popular books for young readers. Her books have received many awards and honors, including Kirkus best picture books of the year selection, Junior Library Guild selection, and Booklist Editors’ Choice.
“It’s always great seeing how excited our GOAL participants are the first time they check out with their new card because, in many ways, it’s not just a library card,” says York County Libraries Youth Services Director Mindy McDonnell. “For children, having a library card can be an invitation into the amazing world of books and reading where they can learn, laugh, and satisfy their curiosity.”
Family members and all York County residents are encouraged to get a York County Libraries card in September as part of National Library Card Sign-Up Month. A free library card provides access to the latest in print and electronic information, bestsellers, Wi-Fi, story times, book discussions and more at locations countywide. YCL’s librarians are passionate advocates for lifelong learning, providing opportunities and resources for all ages. To learn more about York County Libraries’ programs, services, and resources, go to yorklibraries.org.
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MEDIA CONTACT
Deb Sullivan
Community Relations Director
York County Libraries
[email protected]