DOWNEY – Working in partnership since 2016, Downey Unified and the Downey City Library have created a method which enables Downey and Warren high school students easy access to resources within the city library.  

By using their current high school ID, Downey and Warren students are able to check out up to three library books at a time, access all online materials (i.e. magazines, databases, eBooks), and gain entrance into the computer lab and study rooms.

This idea was manifested by the current Downey High School librarian, Martha Ortiz, and the since-retired Downey City Library’s director and children’s librarian. 

Previously an employee of the Downey City Library, Ortiz pushed and piloted this program the first year. 

“I worked there [Downey City Library] for over 21 years, so I know they had faith in me to make this happen,” stated Ortiz.

After much success with the pilot program on her home campus, this program - coined the Downey One Card -- is now being incorporated into Downey Unified’s comprehensive high schools. All students qualify for this program and those interested are asked to visit the Downey City Library to fill out a simple form and show their current high school ID. 

Students are still responsible for all materials checked out and must sign up for the Downey One Card every school year, until they graduate or leave the district.

Parents and/or guardians do not need to be present for books to be checked out or for students to gain access to the computer lab or study rooms. However, parents and/or guardians do have the opportunity to opt their student out of this program at the beginning of each school year if they do not want them to take part in the Downey One Card. 

“Most of the time, it’s because they already have a library card,” shared Ortiz.  

If you or your student would like more information about the new Downey One Card, please call or visit the Downey City Library or contact Martha Ortiz at Downey High School.