I’m sorry to say that National Library Week usually passes me by. Come February, it’s somewhat on my radar, but then the spring kind of gets away from me, and the next thing you know, it’s here.
This year, with the help of the Friends of the Library, we have some exciting things planned. But, I have to remind myself that the idea isn’t just to promote ourselves at the Pendleton Community Public Library. The idea is to promote the great work that all types of libraries do every day, all around the country.
When natural disasters strike, the library often serves as a resource for people who have been affected. After Hurricane Harvey, libraries that could open their doors offered assistance filling out FEMA forms, provided access to computers and internet, and provided an air-conditioned space to charge cellphones. At NRG Stadium, those who were displaced from their homes were offered a sense of normalcy by the pop-up-library that offered storytimes and made laptops and books available to use.
When demonstrations take place regarding social inequalities, local libraries often play host to public conversations encouraging civil discourse, empathy, and a greater understanding of the world around us. It’s natural for other libraries around the country to follow suit, recognizing that the value of these interactions isn’t just for those who live in the communities affected — because we all live in communities that are affected.
These disasters and demonstrations didn’t align themselves with National Library Week. Libraries work tirelessly throughout the year taking the lead in helping their local communities. Celebrate ALL libraries during National Library Week, April 8 to 14, and every week.
Lynn Hobbs is director at the Pendleton Community Public Library.