Live Oak Public Libraries and the Savannah-Chatham County Public School System are partnering to provide all SCCPSS students with free access to the public library through the Student PASS program.  SCCPSS students can easily connect to public library materials and resources to help them succeed inside and outside of school with their SCCPSS Student Number.  The launch of the Student PASS program was announced Friday, March 6, 2020 at A. B. Williams Elementary School.

The Student PASS (PINES Access for Student Success) is an innovative collaboration between Live Oak Public Libraries, the Savannah-Chatham County Public School System, and Georgia Public Library Service’s statewide PINES network (Public Information Network for Electronic Services).  The coordination between libraries and schools strengthens the community's commitment to educational achievement and brings together shared efforts to support literacy and lifelong learning.

“The Student PASS opens the door to expanded library services and offers greater potential for academic success, in partnership with Savannah-Chatham County Public School System.  The program reduces barriers to access by giving students an equitable and direct connection to resources,” according to David Singleton, Live Oak Public Libraries Executive Director.  “The Student PASS creates opportunities for students of all ages, with access to more than 11 million items across our Library System and other PINES libraries in the state.  Children can explore fun learning activities and literacy resources.  Teens can find homework help and tutoring.  There are also study tools to prepare for the future, with college exam prep and job readiness skills.”

The Student PASS is a pilot program. It is currently available to approximately 38,000 SCCPSS students in Pre-K through 12th grade.  Charter schools are not included at this time. There are future plans to expand to other schools and systems in the state.

LOPL and SCCPSS are working together as educational partners, with the public library serving as an extension of the classroom, providing students with access to books, computers, free tutoring, reading programs, and many other important materials and resources.  By promoting student success inside and outside of the classroom, the program is also an asset for educators, parents, and caregivers.

“When a student develops a love of reading, it helps foster a love of learning – an amazing gift we can give our children,” said Dr. Ann Levett, Superintendent of Savannah-Chatham County Schools.  “We are thankful for the partnership with Live Oak Library to provide library cards to all our students.  This community partnership encourages students and families to expand their horizons through a variety of exciting events and activities.  We believe in giving everyone equal opportunity to be successful in life, and giving young students access to the information and services that a library offers is one pathway to that goal.”

SCCPSS students are automatically enrolled in the program. Their student number, the number used for school lunches and other services, becomes the student’s library account number.

There are no overdue fines for student accounts; the only charges are for lost or damaged items.  The program is free and access to public library resources and services are free.

The Student PASS program enriches academic experience.  SCCPSS students can use their Student PASS at their LOPL neighborhood library and online.  LOPL locations offer computers, internet, after-school programs, and quiet places to study.  Students can check out books, ebooks, audiobooks, videos, and more.  Online resources are available anytime 24/7 using any device from home, school, or the library.  The Student PASS can be used at any LOPL location as well as at PINES partner libraries across Georgia.