Phoenix Public Library, Phoenix, AZ. -- January 02, 2009 -- Phoenix Public Library customers now have the convenience of carrying their library cards on their key chains as well as in their wallets.

Phoenix Public Library today unveiled its colorful new library card with the first card issued to local artist and card designer Kiyomi King. Now when patrons get a new library card, they will receive a credit card-sized library card and a convenient key tag library card.

The library unveiled the design of its new library card in May. King, a Phoenix resident since 1996 and self-described "book-a-holic," created the design. Extremely vibrant and bold, her design reflects the library's tagline, "Yours to Explore." In appreciation of King donating her design, the library will host an exhibit of her work in @Central Gallery in May - June 2009.

The new Phoenix Public Library card will be available free to all new customers. Current library cards may be exchanged for a new card free of charge until Feb. 28. Thereafter, a $2 replacement fee will be charged. No replacement cards for current cardholders are available Jan. 21 - 28 due to a system upgrade.

Phoenix Public Library is a system of 14 branch libraries and the Burton Barr Central Library. For more information, call 602-262-4636 or visit phoenixpubliclibrary.org.