To honor September as Library Card Sign-Up Month, Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr. teamed up with Queens Public Library for a Community Day on September 19, 2026. The event aimed to spotlight the exciting opportunities available through the library and to encourage residents—especially students, now that the new school term has begun—to sign up for their own library card.

“A library card opens the door to learning, excitement, and new adventures,” Senator Addabbo said. “That’s why I’m committed to events like Library Card Sign-Up Month, which help bring attention to the wide range of services and programs available across Queens Public Library locations. I’m pleased to partner with QPL once again for another fantastic day.”

The program took place at the Queens Public Library in Woodhaven and included Spanish Storytime with Bilingual Birdies, followed by Family Storytime featuring Senator Addabbo. The celebration also featured a music performance by Brittany & Isaac, and wrapped up with “History of Balloons,” presented by Nick the Baloonatic.

During the story session, Senator Addabbo read A Bad Case of the Stripes by David Shannon—one of the books he frequently shares during youth story times because of its message about staying true to yourself. In the story, Camilla Cream adores lima beans but refuses to eat them out of fear her friends won’t accept her. As a result, her skin breaks out in stripes and other patterns until she discovers that the solution is to embrace who she is and enjoy the lima beans she loves.

“Watching children’s faces light up as they connect with a story is truly wonderful,” Addabbo said. “Sharing books aloud at events like this offers many great benefits, including strengthening literacy skills and building a love of reading.”

There were plenty of library staff members on hand to help attendees sign up for a library card. All were welcome to enjoy this fun, free day of activities and education. Senator Addabbo was also joined by Dennis Walcott, President and CEO of Queens Public Library.