The Public Library for Union County

  With Pennsylvania’s trout season set to open April 16, area residents may be happily surprised to learn that they can check out fishing equipment at any of the three Union County public libraries.
   The Public Library for Union County in Lewisburg, Herr Memorial Library in Mifflinburg, and West End Library in Laurelton — are pleased to announce their involvement in the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission’s Fishing Tackle Loaner Program.
   Beginning Mon., April 11, adults age 18 or older may visit the libraries in Lewisburg, Mifflinburg, and Laurelton to borrow rods, reels and a tackle box with hooks and other basic tackle.
   Identification in the form of a valid driver’s license or a Union County Library System card is required to borrow the equipment. Borrowers simply complete a short registration form.  At the end of the borrowing period the equipment is returned to the appropriate library. Borrowers then will be asked to fill out a short comment form.
   In general, people age 16 or over are required to possess a valid fishing license to use the equipment.  According to the PA Fish and Boat Commission’s 2011 Fishing Summary (page 29) an exception would be an adult who is actively and closely helping a child aged 12 years or younger learn to fish.
   For an up-to-date listing of exclusive areas for children and adults with disabilities, visit the PA Fish and Boat Commission’s website www.fishandboat.com.
   This fishing tackle loaner program is a partnership between the PA Fish and Boat Commission, the American Sportfishing Association, and the three libraries of the Union County Library System.  The program is designed to make it easy for anyone to access fishing tackle. Groups who wish to conduct angler education programs in the community may also borrow the fishing equipment.
   For additional information about this program, contact The Public Library for Union County at 523-1172, Herr Memorial Library at 966-0831, and West End Library at 922-4773, or visit the PA Fish and Boat Commission’s website at www.fish.state.pa.us.