Georgia Public Library Service

Read books = free Atlanta Hawks ticket! Keep your kids reading with the Atlanta Hawks Check It Out Reading Challenge and public libraries this summer.

Students K-12 who read five books earn 1 FREE youth ticket to a select Hawks game during the 2026-2027 season. Books read for your library’s Summer Reading Challenge can count toward this challenge!

Learn more at georgialibraries.org/hawks

We are excited to announce that Angela Stanley has been named Vice Chancellor of Public Libraries for the University System of Georgia, where she will serve as Georgia’s State Librarian beginning July 1, 2026. She will succeed Julie Walker, who is retiring after leading GPLS as Vice Chancellor for Libraries & Archives and State Librarian since 2014.

Stanley will provide strategic leadership and vision for the nationally recognized Georgia Public Library Service (GPLS) and Georgia Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled (GLS). She has served as Assistant State Librarian since 2022 and brings over 15 years of experience in Georgia libraries and archives.

"It’s my deepest honor to serve our incredible library community," said Stanley. "As drivers of literacy, partners in economic and workforce development, and community anchors, our public libraries are the infrastructure of opportunity for Georgians.”

Read more at georgialibraries.org/university-system-of-georgia-names-state-librarian

University System of Georgia

What is Georgia Library PINES? PINES (Public Information Network for Electronic Services) is the public library automation and lending network for 300 libraries covering 146 counties in Georgia.

Georgians with PINES cards have access to 11 million materials from over 300 libraries that can be delivered to your home library with no charge!

Ask your local librarian to learn more. Search the PINES catalog at gapines.org

Many public libraries offer technology workshops, helping seniors navigate digital tools and learn essential online skills like paying bills, making appointments, reading the news, or emailing loved ones.

Many Georgia libraries are addressing the digital literacy gap with programs to support those who feel unsure about using technology.

Patricia, branch manager of Stratton Library in Cobb County, has led several digital literacy classes and said attendees have expressed that they felt more confident in their ability to use the internet safely and keep personal information safe.

“We go beyond the basics of how to use a computer, so participants have an understanding of how their data is collected,” she said. “Once they become knowledgeable of concepts like algorithms, cookies, and search engines, they can feel more comfortable with the technology and can make informed decisions about how their personal information is used online.”

Cobb County Public Library

Tired of paywalls? All Georgia libraries now offer premium digital access to The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, including the website, digital paper, series exclusives, blogs, and podcasts.

Cardholders can access the AJC from a personal device when connected to their local library’s Wi-Fi or from a library computer.

Learn more at georgialibraries.org/newspaper

Spark your child’s love for reading with 1000 Books Before Kindergarten reading programs at Georgia libraries! You can create a strong foundation for literacy and help them be prepared for kindergarten.

Sequoyah Regional Library System recently held a 1000 Books Before Kindergarten graduation and celebration ceremony.

According to the library, in past years, the graduation was held in the community room of the R.T. Jones Memorial Library. With the program's success and growth, the 2026 graduation was held at the Ball Ground Elementary School STEM Academy cafeteria to accommodate more graduates and their families.

"We really appreciate everything the library does to encourage reading for kids," said one family member in attendance. "It's really special to see."

Ask your local library how to get started.
Sequoyah Regional Library