Collectible Library Trading Cards Debut at MVLS Libraries

SCHENECTADY – This summer, patrons of the 14 public libraries in the Mohawk Valley Library System (MVLS) are picking up unique library cards: collectible trading cards celebrating each library within the system.

As part of a collaborative effort, and in conjunction with their summer reading programs, library-specific trading cards are available at each of the system’s libraries in Fulton, Montgomery, Schenectady, and Schoharie Counties, as well as at the MVLS office. Trading cards are free to all library visitors.

The program, called “MVLS-GO!” was envisioned by Sam Zimmerman, a library staff member at Fort Plain Free Library. Working closely with Kate Clingan, a staff member at MVLS, and all of the other libraries in the system, Zimmerman brought each of the cards to life. Each trading card features a sleek detailed design incorporating input from its corresponding library. Similar in format to popular games such as “Pokémon” and “Magic: The Gathering,” each library's trading card features an image and a description that spotlights the unique personality of each library, as well as a QR code that links to a map of participating locations. The trading cards combine artistry with individual library history, making each card a collector’s item.

“As you collect the cards, not only do you get to hold the cards in your hands and learn about the MVLS libraries, but you also gain the personal experience of visiting the various libraries and an appreciation of what makes each library unique,” said Zimmerman.

“We are so excited to add the collectability aspect with these stunning trading cards created by Sam. Each one showcases the special nature of a library. Together, they paint a picture of the whole system. Ideally, this will be a program that we can repeat, with new cards introduced every summer, or even created for special occasions or programs. That way, everyone can collect their library's trading cards over time,” said Clingan.

Collaborative programming is a hallmark of the libraries that make up MVLS. For example, Jennie Mosher, Program Director at Schoharie Free Library, led a program during the height of the pandemic, encouraging people to create and share “Fairies and Gnome Homes.” This project spread beyond the geographic boundaries of the four counties served by MVLS. Two years ago, several MVLS libraries created a collaborative treasure map as part of their summer activities, and last year that initiative expanded into the Library Passport program, which encouraged patrons to visit multiple MVLS libraries. Those two initiatives were facilitated by Sarah Carbone, a library staff member at Amsterdam Free Library with ongoing administrative support from MVLS.

“Shared resources and collaborative programs are at the heart of our mission as a library system. Doing so allows us to provide far more materials and services for library patrons than any one library could do alone. MVLS-GO! is just the latest example of this, and it demonstrates the shared creativity among our libraries. I encourage everyone to visit all of our libraries and collect as many cards as possible,” said Eric Trahan, Executive Director of MVLS.

Patrons are invited to visit each participating library, as well as the Mohawk Valley Library System office, to collect the full set of trading cards. Cards will be available while supplies last.