COLUMBUS, Ohio (WSYX) — The Columbus Metropolitan Library (CML) has teamed up with Opera Columbus to offer free tickets to library patrons through the Culture Pass program. Starting with the opera “Rappaccini’s Daughter” on September 19 and 21, one Opera Columbus Culture Pass is available at each of CML’s 23 locations. In the weeks leading up to each subsequent show in Opera Columbus’s 2025-26 season, two passes will be available at each location.
The Culture Pass program allows CML cardholders to borrow passes for free admission to select cultural institutions in central Ohio, similar to checking out a book. These passes must be checked out in person and provide limited free access to venues that typically charge admission fees.
CML CEO Lauren Hagan said, “With the help of our community partners, we’re working to expose all central Ohioans to the many renowned cultural gems we are fortunate to have at our doorstep. As a public library, our role is to ensure equal access to all, and that goes well beyond books.”
Since its pilot in 2018, the program has expanded to include a variety of cultural organizations, such as BalletMet, Columbus Museum of Art, and Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, among others. Each organization determines the number of passes available and the specific CML locations where they can be checked out. Passes cannot be reserved online but can be checked for availability through the library’s catalog search.
The Culture Pass program previously included the Wexner Center for the Arts, but with the museum now offering free admission, both partners are exploring new opportunities for collaboration.