Mississippi libraries are joining libraries of all types April 7-13 in celebrating the many ways libraries build strong communities by providing critical resources, programs and expertise.
The annual celebration highlights the valuable role libraries, librarians and library workers play in transforming lives and communities. Libraries are at the heart of their cities, towns, schools and campuses. They have public spaces where people of all backgrounds can come together and connect.
Mississippi Gov. Phil Bryant issued a proclamation declaring April 7-13 as National Library Week in Mississippi. He encourages all residents to “visit the library this week and explore what’s new at your library and engage with your librarian.”
Libraries in the state will celebrate by hosting events and classes for all ages, showcasing new materials and displays, debuting new services and much more.
The Columbus-Lowndes Public Library System will host several unique programs at all of its locations throughout Library Week, including a pottery demonstration by Stephen Phillips, Coffee and Crafts Club, a board game day, a Mary Oliver Poetry Tribute, an Edible Book Festival and a ukulele workshop for children. A listing of all events can be found at lowndeslibrary.com, and visit the library’s Facebook page by searching Columbus-Lowndes Public Library.
Library programs encourage community members to meet to discuss civic issues, work together using new technologies, and to learn alongside one another in classes and programs. Library staff also partner with other civic and service organizations to actively engage with the people they serve, always striving to make sure their community’s core needs are being met.
“Libraries in Mississippi are the cornerstones of democracy, promoting the free exchange of information and ideas for all,” said David Brown, Chair of the Mississippi Library Association’s National Library Week committee. “They also foster civic engagement by keeping people informed and aware of community events and issues.”
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, go to lowndeslibrary.com and visit the Facebook page.
You can help your community
Quality, in-depth journalism is essential to a healthy community. The Dispatch brings you the most complete reporting and insightful commentary in the Golden Triangle, but we need your help to continue our efforts. In the past week, our reporters have posted 41 articles to cdispatch.com. Please consider subscribing to our website for only $2.30 per week to help support local journalism and our community.