Library's new I-cards to offer book checkout, other benefits

Incentives are being offered for registering early.
YOUNGSTOWN -- New library cards are coming to all branches of the Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County.
Beginning next month, I-cards will replace regular library cards, said Janet Loew, communications and public relations director. Starting May 7, library users will be able to sign up for the new cards at any library.
The free I-cards, which look like a credit card, will allow patrons to check out books and other materials. The user also will be able to pay for computer and microfiche printouts and computer disks, eliminating the previous debit cards.
"It's easier on staff not to have to handle a lot of change," Lowe said, adding that patrons will find it easier to carry around one card instead of two.
Incentives: The library system is offering incentives to register early.
Those who sign up by May 31 will receive 50 cents credit that can be used toward purchases, Loew said.
Patrons who register in May also will be eligible for four tickets to a Cleveland Indians game and a four-pack of tickets to Six Flags Ohio amusement park. Drawings will be in early June. Other benefits extend beyond the library.
Loew said people can use their card at home to access several databases. Patrons can conduct free searches for books, journals, articles and the Encyclopaedia Britannica online.
Loew cautioned users to keep the card away from anything magnetic to prevent its strip from being erased.
I-cards will be used for photocopiers when the devices become available within the next several months.
Other prize drawings will be in July and August.