Pittsburgh, PA  –  Wednesday, September 25, 2024  – 

Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh (CLP), Pittsburgh Public Schools (PPS) and the City of Pittsburgh today announced the launch of CardFest, a new initiative to improve learning outcomes for all PPS scholars by connecting students, families and educators to the many services of CLP. For the first time, all PPS scholars will have their own active, ready-to-use library card – unlocking a world of free resources available at their library.

The program, which was piloted in five PPS schools during the 2022-2023 and 2023-2024 school years, is now expanding to all of the district’s 54 schools, which comprise approximately 20,000 students in Kindergarten through grade 12. This year’s district-wide launch includes specialty-designed, already-activated cards that will be mailed directly to scholars’ homes – with materials printed in 12 different languages.

“Providing all PPS scholars with a library card is an exciting first step,” said Andrew Medlar, President & Director, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh. “All year long, our staff will be working closely with families and educators so all scholars understand first-hand how having a library card can be their superpower – giving them access to dynamic programming, vetted research resources, homework help, mentor support and more, as they pursue their academic and personal dreams.”

“We are grateful to partner with Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh on this incredible initiative that ensures every PPS student has access to the resources they need to succeed,” said Superintendent Dr. Wayne N. Walters. “By providing all students with library cards, we are not just opening the doors to books and information but also to endless opportunities to explore, learn, and grow. Today truly demonstrates the power of partnership and the positive impact we can create together to enhance student outcomes and experiences.”

“CardFest is another exciting opportunity to invest in the youth of our city in a unique way,” said Mayor Ed Gainey. “Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh is an invaluable resource that connects our children to resources and support that move them towards personal and educational development. A library card is the key to unlocking that success. I am excited to support this new initiative and look forward to providing our students with more opportunities to thrive.”

Kick-Off Event Details: September 26

The official launch of CardFest will take place at an event open to media. Event details are as follows:

• When: Thursday, September 26; 9 a.m.
• Where: Pittsburgh Milliones 6-12, University Preparatory School Library; 3117 Centre Ave, Pittsburgh
• Who: Remarks will be made by:
  • Andrew Medlar, President & Director, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh
  • Wayne Walters, Superintendent, Pittsburgh Public Schools
  • Mayor Ed Gainey, City of Pittsburgh

More about CardFest

In mid-October, CardFest cards will be mailed to the homes of all PPS scholars who do not already have an active library account. Scholars who were part of the CardFest pilot will also receive a special mailing inviting them to celebrate all the library has to offer.

CLP and PPS worked closely together in preparing the CardFest materials for distribution, and cards that don’t automatically arrive in mailboxes will be distributed to the student directly through their school. New students who enter PPS later in the school year are encouraged to stop by their neighborhood CLP branch to register for a CardFest library card.

Every Fall moving forward, new CardFest cards will be created for PPS Kindergarteners, new students to the district or those whose cards may be expired or lost.  For more information for teachers, families, and students – and to learn more about CLP’s Fine Free resources – visit: carnegielibrary.org/cardfest.

Inspired by the national ConnectED Initiative, the Leaders Library Card Challenge is a national call to action led by the Urban Libraries Council to ensure that every child enrolled in school has access to the valuable learning resources available at public libraries. Locally, CardFest has been made possible thanks to funding from The Heinz Endowments; The Frank J. Lucchino KIDS Fund for funding of the program for Kindergarteners; and partnership with PPS and the Mayor’s Office.

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