DCSS Students Receive More Access to Literacy with PLAY Cards
Posted on 10/04/2022
In the Douglas County School System (DCSS) student ID numbers will now also act as a library card number for the public library! The public library provides free access to books and online resources to help children succeed in school, as well as fun resources that help develop a lifelong love of reading.
The school system has partnered with the West Georgia Regional Library System and this partnership allows students to use their DCSS student ID number to access their PLAY Card account. The PLAY (PINES Library Access for Youth) Card is a digital library card that offers students at all of our schools free access to public library materials and online resources to support their educational success. PINES (Public Information Network for Electronic Services) is the statewide network of public library systems serving 300 public libraries across the state of Georgia.
The PLAY Card is free to students within the Douglas County School System. Students with a PLAY Card can check out up to five physical items at a time (Books, DVDs, and CDs). They will also have free access to digital resources through Cloud Library, eRead Kids, GALILEO, Mango Languages, practice SAT and ACT testing, and so much more. Another benefit to students is that they will not be charged late fees for physical items.
The official partnership was signed by Superintendent Trent North along with West Georgia Regional Library and DCSS leaders. “We are excited about this partnership. The role that our public library plays to remove barriers in our community is huge. Access to literacy resources encourages students to enjoy reading and gives them opportunities to spend lots of time with books,” said North.
PLAY was developed by Georgia Public Library Service in order to give more youth access to their local public library and the tools they need to build literacy skills. “Building literacy skills is one of the main components of our district-wide strategic goal of teaching and learning '' said Assistant Superintendent of Teaching and Learning, Melanie Manley.
When schools and libraries partner to give students access to books and more, the possibilities are endless. These are the first steps to developing strong readers.
How does it work?
Students will use their student ID number to access their PLAY Card account just like they would use a library card. The PLAY Card is free and access to public library resources and services is free. There are no overdue fines for materials checked out through a student’s PLAY Card. Fees apply only for lost or damaged materials. If your student already has a library card, the student may use both the PLAY account and their original library card. The PLAY account will be an entirely separate account.
What are the benefits?
Students with a digital PLAY Card can check out up to 5 physical items at a time, including books, DVDs, CDs, free passes to state parks, and more. The PLAY Card will also give your student free access to digital resources such as e-books through Cloud Library and eRead Kids, language learning through Mango Languages, practice tests for SAT, ACT, nursing entrance exams, and more.
What If I Don’t Want to Participate?
If you would prefer your student not to have a PLAY Card, you may opt out of this program by notifying your school.