“Libraries Transform” is the theme of National Library Week April 10-16. The Columbus-Lowndes Public Library System (CLPL) joins libraries in schools, campuses and communities nationwide in celebrating this week highlighting the changing role of libraries, librarians and library workers.
Libraries today are more about what they do for and with library users, as opposed to what they have for patrons. Libraries aren’t only a place of quiet study but are also creative and engaging community centers where people can collaborate using new technologies, learn how to use the ST ViewScan II microfilm machine to research our past, or just relax.
The CLPL offers access to a variety of print and digital resources, including Magnolia online databases and the Mississippi Digital Library eBook Consortium, which can be accessed in person or online.
Libraries of all types are evolving to meet the needs of the communities they serve. They are many things to many people. They work with elected officials, small business owners, students and the public at large to discover and address the needs of their communities. Whether through offering e-books and technology classes, materials for English-language learners, programs for job seekers or offering a safe haven in times of crisis, libraries and librarians listen to the community they serve, and they respond.
“At our library, we are transforming by providing resume-building and job search classes, educational and informative programming for everyone in the family, and nontraditional resources and materials to help further growth among individuals,” said Erin Busbea, CLPL director.
“Service to the community has always been the focus of this library,” she continued. “Public libraries create a level playing field for people of all ages, who are seeking information, and looking to gain access to technologies that will improve their quality of life.”
Columbus Library activities
While libraries across Mississippi are celebrating with special programs, the CLPL is celebrating with several events for the public.
· Monday, April 11 — The library hosts a coloring workshop for adults titled “Did you know that adults colored too? Stress Relief through Coloring” at 4 p.m.
· Tuesday, April 12 — In-house archivist Mona Vance-Ali presents a program at noon on the history of the Columbus-Lowndes Public Library, in the second-floor meeting room.
· Wednesday, April 13 — The Librarian Movie Trilogy screens beginning at 10 a.m. The library also hosts a Library User Appreciation Day at 2 p.m., with light refreshments served.
· Thursday, April 14 — The library hosts an online job fair and resume help workshop from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Attendees receive one free copy of their resume.
Also on Thursday, the Friends of the Library host the first day of their monthly book sale, from 10:30 a.m.- 5:30 p.m.; it also runs Saturday from 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m.
Week-long opportunities
The library will also hold three week-long events.
Fine Free Week allows library users with overdue fines and fees (for Columbus-Lowndes only) to wipe their slate clean. Restrictions do apply. For more information, contact the library at 662-329-5300.
Users may also replace lost library cards for free during Library Week.
Lastly, the library hosts a toiletry drive to benefit those in our community that are in need of basic necessities. Throughout the week, please donate unopened, unused health and sanitary supplies such as toothpaste, toothbrushes, deodorant, socks, wash cloths and soap to the circulation desk on the first floor.
First sponsored in 1958, National Library Week is a national observance sponsored by the American Library Association and libraries across the country each April.
For more information, visit the Columbus-Lowndes Public Library at 314 Seventh St. N., call 662-329-5300, or visit lowndeslibrary.org.
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