Accessing Arlington's libraries will soon become even easier thanks to two new city partnerships with the Arlington Independent School District (AISD) and the University of Texas at Arlington.

In the past, AISD students have not been able to make full use of Arlington Public Library resources without a library card-which requires parental permission and acceptance of financial liability.

Library Director Cary Siegfried said officials have been trying for a few years to make sure that every child in the AISD has a library card. But some students still have not obtained one.

So the City of Arlington and AISD officials came up with a plan that allows students to use their student identification number to use the Library's online collection of materials and to check-out up to two books at a time. Under this plan, students will have access to online research aids like Mango Languages and the LearningExpress Library to enhance their educational experience. Audio-visual materials may not be checked out under this program.

"We're trying to make sure that kids have access to library resources, while still maintaining our collection of materials in an accountable fashion," Siegfried said.

She said the city would continue to work with schools and parents to secure library cards for all students. Students, with a parent's permission, can apply for their own library card that would allow them to check out more materials, use a library computer, and access other online options.

The library also has a new partnership with UT Arlington. Now Arlington residents can also expand their library access due to a new reciprocal borrowing agreement with the UT Arlington library.

Holders of a valid City of Arlington library card can now check out UT Arlington library materials with a signed annual agreement with the college, and UT Arlington students will be able to use Arlington Public Library resources.

"We're not really having people outgrow our libraries, but we're not the only library in Arlington," Siegfried said. "This will open the door to make those services available to residents. We want to make it easier for people to use that library whenever they want to."

Details of both partnerships will be finalized and implemented by December 1. City of Arlington residents and property owners qualify for a free Arlington Public Library card. For information on how to apply, go to www.arlingtonlibrary.org/library-card.

For more information about either program, call the 817-459-6900.