Libraries are the Centerpiece of Our Community
Reading Time: 2 mins
To many, libraries are a fixture in the community. It’s a place full of books and research resources that we often take for granted. But libraries are more than just books. Libraries are a community cornerstone where literacy skills and technology unite to create one remarkable resource.
Libraries are community hubs that connect people to information and fictional worlds alike.
They are a place where seniors, children, and everyone can come for a quiet place to sit and read, learn about far away places, research a curiosity or learn a new skill.
Today’s libraries help even the playing field by providing access to a wide range of resources to people of every age, income level, ethnicity, and physical ability.
They not only offer thousands of books on thousands of topics, but they also provide essential resources such as internet access, computer software programs, games, movies and most importantly, a quiet place to learn & explore.
Library resources became crucial in many communities during the COVID pandemic when schools and workplaces suddenly went remote.
The pandemic created significant learning challenges for students. In many low-income and rural areas, libraries played a vital role in keeping their communities connected by providing 24/7 Wi-Fi outside library buildings and parking lots. Others brought connectivity to neighborhoods with limited access in library vehicles that acted as hotspots. Some libraries even offer hotspots to home devices free of charge to support students, teachers, parents, job seekers, veterans, and others in need.
The next time you are at your local library, be sure to thank your local librarian who has dedicated their career to maintaining the resources crucial to many individuals in your community. In addition, many librarians spend time advocating for new resources for their libraries to serve the community better. With the dedication of these individuals, computers, internet access, audiobooks and more may be available free of cost to the community.
Libraries and librarians are committed to preserving the freedom to read, enhancing learning, and ensuring access to information for all. Let's support them in continuing the excellent work that they do!
