The Edison Municipal Council on Sept. 10 adopted a resolution recognizing September as National Library Card Sign-Up Month and encouraged residents to sign up for free library cards.

During public comment residents praised local libraries and cited programs ranging from film screenings to cultural events. Joel, a resident and regular library user, told the council he appreciates the libraries’ cultural programming and urged continued support; Elizabeth Conway recounted lifelong library use and singled out the Clara Barton branch as a favorite.

Library leadership addressed the council after the resolution was presented. A library official said the system employs about 60 staff and described renovations planned for the Main and North libraries and work to reopen and reconfigure the entrance and front area at the Clara Barton branch. The official said the main-library exterior work is expected to be completed “pretty soon,” with an approximate reopening target mentioned during council remarks, and the North Library work is expected later next year. Library staff also referenced expanded programming, including English-as-a-second-language classes, food‑related educational programs, a bookmobile and a sprinter vehicle that make regular stops across town.

Library staff reported nearly double the number of students participating in this year’s summer-reading program compared with last year and said outreach to schools had increased. The council and public thanked the library board and staff; the resolution passed by roll call.

Council members used their remarks to emphasize the value of library cards, networked borrowing across Middlesex County and the role libraries play in literacy, digital access and community programming. Several council members encouraged residents to obtain library cards and noted the libraries’ role in supporting residents from infancy through older adulthood.

The resolution was adopted and council members presented the recognition to library board members and staff at the meeting.