Sept. 14, 2020
CONTACT: Deborah Hakes, dhakes@georgialibraries.org

ATLANTA…The Georgia Public Library Service is launching an e-card for all PINES public libraries, which represent 300 locations including branch libraries, bookmobiles, special collections, and more covering 146 counties. The e-card provides immediate access to all digital resources offered at your local public library, such as eRead Kids, Mango Languages, Learning Express, and much more.

The e-card service reduces barriers to getting a library card when many libraries may be closed or not offering full services due to COVID-19. As an added incentive, you can also receive information about how to register to vote using the e-card application.

“We are so pleased to offer this service in a time when access to the information and resources in public libraries is more vital than ever. Services and programs at our libraries are so important to students, job seekers, families, and communities, and the e-card allows 24/7 access from anywhere,” said Julie Walker, State Librarian and Associate Vice Chancellor for Libraries.

Anyone in Georgia can register for a PINES e-card regardless of whether their local library is a part of the PINES network. To apply, visit georgialibraries.org/discover-pines.

Those who want to upgrade their PINES e-card to a full library PINES card to check out books and other materials can bring their e-card account number and photo ID to any PINES library. If you have any questions, please call your local library for assistance.

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The Georgia Public Library Service (GPLS) empowers libraries to improve the lives of all Georgians by encouraging reading, literacy, and education through the continuing support and improvement of our public libraries. GPLS is a unit of the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia. www.georgialibraries.org #georgialibraries

Georgia Library Public Information Network for Electronic Services, or PINES, creates a statewide borderless library that eliminates geographic and socio-economic barriers, and the initiative is one way that Georgia Public Library Service provides a scalable service that strengthens access to information and saves taxpayer money. Over its 20 years, PINES has saved Georgia’s public libraries $12 million in one-time costs and more than $79 million in ongoing costs.