April 12th kicks off National Library Week, and according to the American Library Association, “our nation will celebrate the invaluable contributions of libraries. Libraries across America report a surge in visits by patrons who want free computer and Internet access, job information, accurate financial materials as well as many other services, including books, CDs, DVDs and much more.” Our own, Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners, likens Library usage to the support for our much beloved sports teams in this fashion: “More people visit Massachusetts public libraries each year than attend entire seasons of the Red Sox, Patriots, Bruins and Celtics combined.”
In Attleboro, our belief is that “Behind Every Great Community is a Great Library”- a slogan we will proudly wear during National Library Week that emphasizes the importance of libraries. Being a “great library” is the goal that motivates us to try new ideas and approaches to information access for all.
At the Attleboro Public Library we work diligently towards meeting the needs of our patrons and our community. We have increased the number and type of programs presented in our building; added databases, including on-line classes accessible from home; brought in new public computers for general use; reached out to organizations to collaboratively bring an enhanced cultural experience to our community. With a team approach we continue to look at ways to improve service or invent new ways of conveying information.
Without a doubt, our world is changing- and so are we. Libraries are at the crossroads of becoming the center for community information, community interaction, and community gathering. Individuals can connect with their community, or, with people of similar interests, through the myriad of discussions, events, and programs offered at the Library. At the APL, we listen to your ideas and do our best to bring the information or entertainment you seek through the best means possible- all while staying within our budget for the year!
We will soon be reviewing our existing 5 Year Plan to create a vision for our future. As part of this process we will be asking you- what you look for in YOUR library as well as what YOUR vision of the future Library would include. We encourage you to share your comments and ideas for our future.
In the meantime, stop in during National Library Week and let us know how we are doing! If you get a chance, thank a Librarian on National Library Workers Day, April 14. We would like to take time, especially this week, to thank you for your support of Libraries.
