Pittsburgh Schools Launch CardFest for 14,000 Students

The Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh has initiated a significant program aimed at enhancing educational resources for students in the Pittsburgh Public Schools. Announced on Thursday, this initiative will provide library cards to all 14,000 students, ensuring they have access to a wealth of information and support. The program builds on a successful pilot conducted over the past two school years in five district schools, demonstrating its potential impact on student learning. Dr. Wayne Walters, the Superintendent of Pittsburgh Public Schools, highlighted the importance of this initiative, stating it opens doors to numerous opportunities for students. The library cards will be specially designed and activated, allowing students to utilize various resources beyond traditional books, such as databases, mentor support, and technology access. Andrew Medlar, President and Director of the Carnegie Library, emphasized that the program aims to provide a foundation for academic success and personal enjoyment, ultimately contributing to future economic mobility. The launch event underscored the evolving role of libraries in the digital age, with speakers noting that libraries now offer much more than just books. The library cards will be mailed out in mid-October, and new kindergarteners and district students will receive cards each year. This initiative is part of a broader effort to instill lifelong learning values in students, as expressed by Pittsburgh Mayor Ed Gainey, who praised the transformative power of libraries in education.