Oldbridge Library Launches Innovative Passport Program to Encourage Reading and Exploration
In an effort to promote literacy and community engagement, the Oldbridge Public Library has launched a new and innovative passport program that is quickly gaining popularity among residents. The program, aptly named the “Oldbridge Library Passport,” encourages patrons to explore the vast resources and services offered by the library while also promoting a love for reading and learning.
The Oldbridge Library Passport program works like a traditional passport, with participants receiving a physical booklet that contains a series of challenges and activities to complete. These challenges are designed to encourage patrons to utilize different areas of the library, such as the fiction and non-fiction sections, the children’s area, and the digital resources available.
“We wanted to create a fun and interactive way for our patrons to engage with the library and all that we have to offer,” said Sarah Thompson, the head librarian at Oldbridge Public Library. “The passport program not only encourages reading and exploration, but it also fosters a sense of community and connection among our patrons.”
To participate in the program, patrons simply need to pick up a copy of the Oldbridge Library Passport booklet at the circulation desk. The booklet contains a list of challenges, such as reading a book from a certain genre, attending a library event, or using a library resource like the digital archives or online tutoring service. As patrons complete each challenge, they receive a stamp in their passport booklet.
One of the most popular challenges in the Oldbridge Library Passport program is the “Library Scavenger Hunt,” where participants are tasked with finding specific items within the library, such as a book with a blue cover or a DVD starring a certain actor. This challenge not only encourages patrons to explore the library’s shelves and resources but also helps them become more familiar with the layout of the building.
“I had so much fun completing the Library Scavenger Hunt challenge,” said longtime library patron Emily Roberts. “It was a great way to discover new books and resources that I might not have come across otherwise. Plus, it was a fun and interactive way to spend an afternoon at the library.”
In addition to the challenges and activities in the passport booklet, the Oldbridge Library Passport program also offers rewards for participants who complete a certain number of challenges. These rewards range from small prizes, such as bookmarks and stickers, to larger incentives, such as free library swag or a gift card to a local bookstore.
“The rewards are a great motivator for patrons to continue participating in the program and exploring all that the library has to offer,” said Thompson. “We want to encourage a love for reading and learning in our community, and the passport program is just one of the ways we are doing that.”
Since its launch, the Oldbridge Library Passport program has been met with overwhelming enthusiasm from patrons of all ages. Families have been particularly drawn to the program, as it offers a fun and engaging way for parents and children to spend quality time together while also promoting literacy and learning.
“We love coming to the library to work on our passport challenges as a family,” said parent and patron Mike Reynolds. “It’s a great way for us to bond over books and reading while also exploring all the amazing resources and services that the library has to offer. Plus, the kids are having a blast earning stamps and rewards for completing the challenges.”
Looking ahead, the Oldbridge Public Library has plans to expand the passport program to include more challenges and activities, as well as special events and promotions tied to the program. The library also hopes to partner with local businesses and organizations to offer exclusive discounts and rewards to passport program participants.
“We are thrilled with the success of the Oldbridge Library Passport program so far, and we are excited to see how it continues to grow and evolve in the coming months,” said Thompson. “Our goal is to create a vibrant and engaging community around reading and learning, and the passport program is just the beginning of that journey.”
For residents of Oldbridge looking to get involved in the library’s passport program, more information can be found on the library’s website or by stopping by the circulation desk to pick up a passport booklet. With a wide range of challenges and rewards to enjoy, the Oldbridge Library Passport program is sure to be a hit with patrons of all ages for years to come.
