Families who visit the Newton County Library to check out books with their library card now have the opportunity to use their card for free puppet shows featuring characters such as Big Bird and the Fraggles at the Center for Puppetry Arts, as its “Passport to Puppetry” library loan program has launched statewide.

The Center for Puppetry Arts and Georgia’s Public Libraries have formed a partnership to allow citizens with valid library cards in the state the chance to visit the museum and participate in its “Passport to Puppetry” program at any participating public library in the state.

The program also allows up to four free museum admissions, which is a potential savings of up to $33 per family, to the Center for Puppetry Arts. Parties with children must include at least one adult.

According to a news release from the Center, the museum provides educational fun with more than 350 puppets from around the world, highlighting the fact that every civilization on our planet has its own unique form of puppetry tradition. By examining and learning more about the cultural traditions of other countries, one gains a greater understanding of our shared histories and values.

Vincent Anthony, the Center’s founding Executive Director said the Center strives to be accessible to anyone who wishes to avail themselves of their programming and welcomed the opportunity to partner with the Georgia Public Library Service.

“Whether you’re an elementary, high, or college student; parent, toddler, or senior citizen, we endeavor to provide access to many different activities thereby gaining a greater understanding of our shared cultural heritage,” Anthony said. “After a visit, we hope that you understand that puppetry is not just for kids: it's for everyone.”

The museum at the Center for Puppetry Arts is open Tuesdays through Sundays with hours varying upon day and programming.

In addition to four free admissions, the “Passport to Puppetry” program also entitles library patrons to attend a performance at the Center and/or participate in a Create-a-Puppet Workshop at a 25 percent discount, when space is available.

Complete details, including valid dates, show times, hours of operation, and reservation information can be found online at www.puppet.org.

Lamar Veatch, Georgia’s state librarian, said the collaboration between the Center for Puppetry Arts and Georgia’s public libraries brings an even greater dimension and value to the libraries ever-growing list of services.

“We are thrilled for our libraries to offer this entertaining educational opportunity to citizens in every corner of our state,” Veatch said.

More details about the Center for Puppetry Arts museum pass program and a list of the participating branches can be found by visiting puppet.org/museum/galibrarypassport.shtml or georgialibraries.org.

You can also visit the Newton County Library for more information located at 7116 Floyd Street, NE Covington, GA 30014.