This week, April 8-14, is National Library Week. Recently American Libraries magazine ran an article that listed twelve ways that libraries are good for the country. Being an unabashed fan of public libraries, I think that there are many more than twelve, but below I’ll paraphrase the ones mentioned:
1. Libraries sustain democracy. At a library you may find information and access to all points of view that will help you make knowledgeable decisions concerning public policy. Libraries guard against tyrannies of “ignorance and conformity.”
2. Libraries level the playing field. By providing information access and technology to all, regardless of income or background, libraries help to close the gap between the rich and the poor. There are more public libraries in the United States than there are McDonald’s restaurants.
3. Libraries break down boundaries. Libraries of all sorts, public, school, church, etc. help destroy the fences that separate people of all ages, abilities, English skill level. Persons with disabilities, homeless, imprisoned or homebound all have access to a library.
4. Libraries value the individual. The library door swings open for independent thinking. Library collections and services offer global, historical cultural and political perspective that will foster the spirit of exploration.
5. Libraries nourish creativity. Libraries provide a setting that stimulates curiosity. A library provides opportunity for unstructured learning and serendipitous discovery, as anyone who likes to browse library shelves can attest.
6. Libraries open young minds. Librarians for children and teens care about the unique developmental needs of each child. They make a difference because they care.
7. Libraries return high dividends. Strong public libraries make a town more desirable as a business location. Public libraries return to the community up to $10 for every $1 invested in libraries.
8. Libraries build communities. Libraries are gathering spots for all segments of society to share information and engage in community discussion.
9. Libraries support families. Libraries provide an alternate venue. Whether a place for parents and kids to engage one another in books, games and puzzles or a place to do ones homework, libraries are family-friendly.
10. Libraries build technology skills. Almost 100% of American libraries offer internet access for patrons to search for jobs online, polish resumes, keep in touch with others through email or brush up on computing skills.
11. Libraries offer sanctuary. Libraries offer an atmosphere conducive to reflection and quiet thought. (Except our library on early-out-from-school Wednesdays. Then, we are quite lively!)
12. Libraries preserve the past. Libraries are repositories of community history. Thanks to our active genealogical society, we have an excellent place to search Humboldt history and your local ancestors.
Stop by to see what you may have been missing at the Humboldt Public Library. While you are here, tell a librarian how much you appreciate her. We have the hardest working, most enthusiastic staff you could ever hope to meet!