Letter: Celebrating National Library Week

To the Editor:

The Yorkville Public Library is celebrating National Library Week April 4 to 10. During this week, the library encourages all community members to stop in for a visit whether in person or through our website and explore what the library has to offer.

National Library Week is a special time to highlight the essential role libraries, librarians and library workers play in transforming lives and strengthening communities. The theme for this year’s National Library Week is “Welcome to your Library,” which promotes the idea that libraries extend far beyond the four walls of a building and that everyone is welcome to use their services. Whether people visit virtually or in person, libraries are accessible and inclusive places that foster a sense of belonging and community through learning, discovery, and exploration.

We provide both in-person and Zoom programming for all ages. There are several online resources that are available from the comfort of home, including eBooks and audiobooks, Novelist (a fiction database to find your next great read) and Gale General OneFile for full text articles from various periodicals. You can even download our PrairieCat app to manage your own account and request materials to be picked up at the library. Don’t want to get out of your car? We have curbside pickup for your convenience.

During these challenging times, libraries of all types have been going above and beyond to adapt to our changing world by expanding their resources and continuing to meet the needs of their patrons. Libraries across the country are making a difference in people’s lives by providing electronic learning resources like online homework help and Wi-Fi access for students and workers who may lack internet access at home. The Yorkville Public Library is supporting the community with virtual programs such as book clubs, writing group, crafting group, Bingo, Facebook storytime in English and Spanish, Facebook STEM programs, and special webinars including a portrayal of Abraham Lincoln on Wednesday, April 7 at 7 p.m. via Zoom. This National Library Week, the public can show their appreciation and support for libraries by visiting our library’s website, following us on Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, and by using the hashtag #NationalLibraryWeek.

First sponsored in 1958, National Library Week is a national observance sponsored by the American Library Association and libraries of all types across the country each April. For more information, visit the library’s website at yorkville.lib.il.us.

Shelley Augustine

Co-Interim director

Yorkville Public Library

Yorkville