Winter in the Carolinas is a perfect time to curl up with a good book. Especially considering that the COVID-19 pandemic is still requiring us to socially distance and stay home more often. What better way to embrace reading than by celebrating National Library Lover’s month? This February, join book lovers across the country during the month-long celebration of school, public, and private libraries of all types. This is a time for all to recognize the value of libraries and to work to assure that the nation’s libraries will continue to serve.
Every community has a library. This quiet place can be a true refuge for many. They are a quiet place to read, think and learn. Libraries not only house countless books and research opportunities, they also offer other services to the public. For those searching for a new job, the library has numerous job and employment resources. For young adults needing to write a research paper for school, the library can offer databases and subscriptions to help scholars find credible sources for research papers. For those new to our country, local libraries often provide free English classes to help with the naturalization process. From tiny toddlers attending a “story time” and learning the power of reading, to older seniors enjoying a quiet quest to find a work by their favorite author, our local libraries can help all ages embrace the power of reading.
Considering that our neighborhood libraries do so much for their community, what are some unique ways that we can show our support? Read on for a few ways to show the love we all have for these institutions.
Consider a Contribution! While libraries always can benefit from financial contributions, this is not the only way one can contribute to this neighborhood treasure. Here are a few ways you can make an impact. First, you can nominate your library as your community, school, or corporate organization’s project for the year. Secondly, you can buy your library a subscription to a popular magazine. Finally, you can give financially to the library through inviting your company to enable a matching program for charitable giving.
Promotion, Promotion, Promotion! Just like any business, libraries cannot run without financial support. Many people are not aware of the funding problems libraries are experiencing nationally—or in their own communities. With this said, there are a few things that one can do to help. First, you can attend local government meetings to urge city and county legislators to invest in libraries as a vital community resource. Another thing one can do is urge school and college administrators to make library funding a high priority. Finally, you can speak up for libraries at campus or community groups that you belong to. Such groups can also help get these treasures the funding they rightfully deserve.
Volunteer your time! While, of course, financial contributions will help libraries on many levels; these institutions also greatly need help running their services. One can help by donating time and energy. What are a few ways to do this? First, an individual can offer to be a helping hand to a library’s staff. Secondly, you can offer to become a literacy tutor for struggling scholars. Finally, one can volunteer to work in one of their programs, from reading stories to children, to helping with career resources.
