April is the month to celebrate American libraries

Whether it's supporting patrons with digital literacy classes, becoming a new telehealth hotspot, or hosting literacy tutoring nights, American libraries are hubs for learning and civic life. Especially in rural communities where meeting places might be lacking, the local library can be a welcoming gathering place.

To celebrate all the strength, smarts and social connections libraries across the U.S. contribute to their local regions and patrons, April 19 to 25 is set aside as National Library Week, with the theme 'Find Your Joy.'

How do individuals 'find their joy' at the library? That depends. Some kids love story time and the weekly craft, while other youngsters do puzzles or drag out all the games. A teen might relish the time reading alone in a cozy corner. One adult patron might love their library's new 3-D printer, while another loves being able to check out the latest mystery book for free. 

For school librarians, the entire month of April is set aside to remind students, parents, teachers and education professionals of the role libraries play in school learning and educational spaces.

Ways to celebrate libraries of all sizes in April:

• Participate in National Library Week (April): Attend special events, such as author signings, workshops and book club meetings hosted by local branches.
• Support library staff: Celebrate National Library Workers Day (Tuesday of National Library Week) by thanking librarians and staff for their contributions.
• Get involved and advocate: Attend "Take Action for Libraries Day" (Thursday of National Library Week) to support funding and programs. Volunteer or join a "Friends of the Library" group.
• Use and promote services: Visit the library to check out items, attend digital literacy workshops, or explore online resources such as e-books and databases.
• Support intellectual freedom: Celebrate Right to Read Day (Monday of National Library Week) by checking out and reading books that have been challenged or banned.
• Read up on a Checkout Challenge: Some libraries run challenges during the week to encourage borrowing items (physically or digitally)