Libraries strengthen their communities: celebrate National Library Week April 7-13
March 29, 2019 (Helena, MT) –During the second week of April, the Lewis & Clark Library joins libraries of all types in celebrating the many ways libraries build strong communities by providing critical resources, programs and expertise.
April 7-13, 2019 is National Library Week, an annual celebration highlighting the valuable role libraries, librarians and library workers play in transforming lives and communities. Libraries are at the heart of their cities, towns, schools, and campuses. They have public spaces where people of all backgrounds can come together and connect.
Library programs encourage community members to meet to discuss civic issues; work together using new technologies like 3D printing; or learn alongside one another in a variety of classes. Library staff also partner with other civic and service organizations to actively engage with the people they serve, always striving to make sure their community’s core needs are being met.
“Libraries are cornerstones of democracy, promoting the free exchange of information and ideas for all,” explained Lewis & Clark Library Director John Finn. “Libraries are the community’s living room. They also foster civic engagement by keeping people in formed and aware of community events and issues and libraries serve as a place where everyone can gather.”
In the spirit of community, the Library will offer Food for Fines during National Library Week to support Helena Food Share. “Each year during National Library Week, we offer an opportunity for individuals with fines to clear up their accounts,” explains Finn. “Simply bring in non-perishable food items, along with your overdue items, and we will waive your fines.” There are some restrictions to this annual fine-amnesty however, all materials must be returned and the patron’s account cannot be in collections.
First sponsored in 1958, National Library Week is a national observance sponsored by the American Library Association (ALA) and libraries across the country each April.
For more information, visit the Lewis & Clark Library at 120 S. Last Chance Gulch or one of the branch libraries in Augusta, East Helena, Lincoln, and the Bookmobile. Visit the Library’s website at http://www.lclibrary.org
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