by Keirra McFadden

I feel like today nothing is actually free and easy to obtain, especially when it comes to becoming a part of a membership program. Services with memberships draw you in with lines like “first month free!” but to get that free month you have to put in all of your information, payment method, and agree to a million terms and conditions. It is stressful, confusing, and intimidating. After going through that process time and time again it makes you weary. That was why when it came time to get an Ames Public Library card, I was prepared to bear the entire process. 

On the day of, I made sure I had every document I thought I could possibly need. My driver’s license, social security card, healthcare papers, dental care card, a card with blood type, my credit score, and my mail from the last month. I was prepared for loads of paperwork and the time it would take to fill it out. So with my documents in hand and with dedicated time to spare, I walked in the Library. 

I walked right up to the desk and asked to get a library card. Before she could even get a word out I explained how I was in between apartments and by August I would be in a new one. I was nervous my apartment situation would hinder my ability to get a card, and I wanted to get it out there before we even got started. 

Right away, the front desk assistant was very sweet. She explained how that wasn’t a problem and my address could be updated when I moved. Already something I expected to cause issues actually turned out to be no problem at all, and we were ready to move on to getting a card. 

Overall she only asked me 8 questions: Can I see your ID? Do you want an individual or shared plan? Can I get a phone number? Can I get an email? Are you a student? Can I get your current address? What 4 to 13 digit number would you like as your password? Would you like just the card or the card with a keychain scanner?

The last question is probably the question that threw me for the biggest loop because I couldn’t believe I was already done. There was no paperwork, no unnecessarily confusing terms and conditions, no need to show a million documents of proof, no fees, and no stress. I was an official Ames Public Library Cardholder in under 10 minutes. 

In that short amount of time I gained the ability to check out books, movies, special collections, and so much more, not to mention access to a wide variety of online resources such as Kanopy, Hoopla, Bridges, and others. 

I want to point out that although I went and got my card in person, that is not the only option. The Library also offers online registration. The process is just as quick and convenient online, and it allows people who can’t come in person to have access to online resources right away. 

So what did I take away from this experience? I realized everyone who can, should get a library card. The staff members want people to use the library’s resources, and it shows by how easy they have made the process. It is worth spending the short amount of time to become a cardholder, even if you don’t know what you’ll use for it. It is a free and easy process which opens up opportunities, resources, and benefits. What’s better than that? Get your library card today!