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Celebrate National Library Week

April 24, 2023 /

Originally published on the I Earned It Blog.

Four Ways to Get Involved

April 23 – 29 is National Library Week! National Library Week was first sponsored in 1958 by the American Library Association. This year’s theme is “There’s More to the Story.” There are several ways to participate in National Library Week, such as visiting your local library, attending events and programs, sharing your love for libraries on social media and supporting library advocacy efforts.

Let’s dive into these four ways to get involved in National Library Week:

1. Visit Your Library

Visiting your library is a great way to improve your skills and make yourself more well-rounded. Additionally, going to your library can enhance your reading. In fact, according to Healthline.com, research shows that regular reading has a plethora of benefits, including: 

  • Improved brain connectivity
  • Increased vocabulary and comprehension
  • Empowered empathizing skills
  • Reduced stress
  • Lowered blood pressure and heart rate
  • Fights depression symptoms
  • Prevents cognitive decline
  • Contributes to a longer life

2. Attend Events and Programs

Libraries offer events and programs for people of all ages. They typically have a variety of activities, such as book clubs, author readings, workshops, and children’s storytimes. So whether you’re an adult looking for some resume help or looking to bring your toddler to story time, you’re guaranteed to find a suitable activity at the library.

Additionally, most libraries will host special events and programs throughout National Library Week. You can check with your local library to see what events and programs they have planned for the week.

3. Share Your Love for Libraries on Social Media

A great way to support libraries is by spreading the word about them. The easiest way is through one of our most readily available tools: social media. Even the ALA encourages sharing your love for libraries on social media. In addition, the ALA wants to hear your library story, so tell them how the library has positively impacted your life. Share your story to social media with the hashtag #MyLibraryStory from Monday, April 23rd through Friday, April 28th, to win a $150 Visa gift card and a Kelly Yang Front Desk poster. For more details, check out the ALA website.

4. Support Library Advocacy Efforts

Libraries are one of the only places you can go for free and gain knowledge and skills. So, protecting our libraries means helping them provide our communities vital resources. According to the Public Library Association, “By expanding access to resources…public libraries empower people to improve their education, livelihood, health, and connection with their communities.” Here are a few ways to support library advocacy efforts:

  • Contact Local Officials: Contact your elected officials and express your support for library funding and resources.
  • Participate in Library Board Meetings: Attend board meetings and voice your opinions on library advocacy issues.
  • Go to Library Events: Participate in library events and programs to show appreciation for the library’s services.
  • Talk to Your Connections: Share your positive library experiences with others and encourage them to use the library.
  • Join an Advocacy Organization: Join library advocacy organizations and help spread awareness about the importance of libraries in our communities.

Get involved in National Library Week by visiting your local library, attending events and programs, sharing your love for libraries on social media and supporting library advocacy efforts.