It’s National Library Week (April 8-14)! The purpose is to celebrate the contributions of our nation’s libraries and library workers and promote library use and support. Libraries offer free access to books and online resources for families. Library business centers help support entrepreneurship and retraining.
The theme for 2018 National Library Week is “Libraries Lead.” This is the 60th anniversary of the event and is sponsored by the American Library Association.
National Library Week celebrations (with #hashtags) include:
- Monday, April 9: State of America’s Libraries Report released. This includes Top Ten Frequently Challenged Books of 2017.
- Tuesday, April 10: National Library Workers Day. A day for library staff, users, administrators and Friends groups to recognize the valuable contributions made by all library workers. #nlwd18
- Wednesday, April 11: National Bookmobile day. A day to recognize the contributions of our nation’s bookmobiles and the dedicated professionals who make quality bookmobile outreach possible in their communities. #bookmobileday2018
- Thursday, April 12: Take Action for Libraries Day. A national library advocacy effort observed for the first time in 2017 in response to proposed cuts to federal funds for libraries. #fundlibraries
I love my library, the Appaloosa Library, which is part of the Scottsdale Public Library system. Appaloosa library features a cool, unique Gold-level LEED certified building. The book reservation and check out system is super easy and efficient. A far cry from the old days of searching through index cards (remember that?).
Libraries are a free and safe public space that anyone can access. They are an ideal gathering space for many different types of people and backgrounds. One of my favorite things is seeing kids and adults of all ages spending time at the library. Going to the library should always be an option for everyone.
Shannon Cairns
Wednesday 11th of April 2018
I love going to the library! I took the kids this morning, as ours has an amazing toddler storytime every week and so many other great, FREE programs for kids and adults!!