Want to know the secret to having access to unlimited knowledge, epic fantasy worlds, historic documents, and endless entertainment? Well, it is not something grand or expensive — in fact, it can fit in your pocket: a library card.

Since 1987, the American Library Association (ALA) has been marking the beginning of new school years with Library Card Sign-up Month in September.

This year, be sure to honor the special occasion with the C.H. Booth Library, 25 Main Street.

According to Anne Mastroianni, the library’s circulation manager, Newtown residents are eligible to receive a library card, as are Newtown teachers in order to access digital collections and databases.

“There are two ways to sign up for a library card — online through our website or apply in person at the library. In either case, a photo ID and proof of Newtown residency are needed to get a card,” she explained.

Children as young as those entering kindergarten are able to have their very own library card. Anyone under the age of 16 applying for a library card must have a parent/guardian signature.

Once they receive their library card, they can use it that same day to enjoy all the benefits available to them both in person and online.

“Library card holders can check out books, audiobooks, DVDs, magazines, passes to participating Connecticut museums and parks, laptops, WiFi hotspots, cake pans, electricity usage meters, an automotive code reader, and electronic material including e-books, e-audiobooks, e-magazines, and streaming movies and music,” Mastroianni said.

She continued, “In addition to the digital materials, library cards can also be used for online access to library databases including Mango Languages, Learning Express, Creativebug, Consumer Reports, Value Line, NewsBank, Ancestry, NoveList, and ResearchIT CT.”

Newtown residents with a C.H. Booth Library card not only have access to those amenities, but also have borrowing privileges at libraries throughout the state. Similarly, Connecticut residents with an up-to-date card from their hometown library can use it at the C.H. Booth Library.

Remember, though, library cards do expire, and at the C.H. Booth Library, they need to be renewed every three years. The renewal process is quick and simple, with patrons just needing to stop by the library with their ID and proof of residency.

Whether a person has a library card or not, there still are aspects of the library that all can enjoy.

Mastroianni explained, “No library card is required for patrons to use the services available at the library, including photocopying, printing and faxing (for a small fee), equipment in the chbMakers’ Corner, in-library use of newspapers and other reading material, computers, and microfilm. Library programs are open to everyone (registration may be required) and the Friends of the Library Little Book Store is open during library hours.”

Stop by the C.H. Booth Library this September for Library Card Sign-up Month during its hours of operation, Monday through Thursday from 9:30 am to 8 pm or Friday and Saturday from 9:30 am to 5 pm.

For more information about the C.H. Booth Library, visit chboothlibrary.org or call 203-426-4533.

Reporter Alissa Silber can be reached at alissa@thebee.com.