“Connect with your Library” is the theme for 2022 National Library Week (April 3 – 9, 2022), which is a time to celebrate our nation’s libraries, library workers’ contributions and promote library use and support.

This year’s theme got me thinking about how the library connects us all to learning, entertainment and social opportunities.

And I’ve also noticed, as I transition through life, the ways I use the library have changed.

And guess what — it is still there for me, offering me the things I need now!

The library and its staff often give the first impression of our community as new residents come in, explore and sign up for a library card.

They often serve as the unofficial visitors bureau, welcome center and chamber of commerce, connecting us to our community and each other.

During National Library Week, stop by and thank the library staff for all they ways they connect us.

-Coco Bill, president, Friends of the Pendleton Community Library