The new Cards for Kids Act is an amendment to Public Library Non-Resident Services that allows qualifying students in pre-kindergarten through twelfth grade who participate in the Federal Free and Reduced-Price Meal Program at school to obtain a library card free of charge, even if they live in an unincorporated area of Glen Ellyn.
To be issued a card at GEPL, students in Glen Ellyn schools will need to present their letters of free and reduced lunch eligibility that they receive each year on or around July 1 from the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE). If students misplace their letters, they may request new copies from school. Cards covered by this Act can and will only be registered in a student’s name.
Adults may apply for a GEPL library card as part of the Open Books Open Doors program if they qualify.
We are currently working with the local schools to reach out to students privately and simplify the process for those who qualify. We are so pleased that State law makes it possible for more students to have access to essential library resources and services!