This week, the Switzerland County Public Library joins libraries in schools, campuses and communities nationwide in celebrating National Library Week, a time to highlight the changing role of libraries, librarians and library workers.
Libraries today are more than warehouses for books. Instead, libraries and librarians are change agents within their communities – transforming lives through innovative educational resources and forward-thinking programming. Libraries are doing their part to close the digital divide and level the playing field by providing free access to information and technologies that many in their communities would be hard pressed to find elsewhere.
Libraries help to ensure the American dream and promote democracy by providing service to all regardless of race, ethnicity, creed, age, ability, sexual orientation, gender identity or socio-economic status.
Librarians work with elected officials, small business owners, students and the public at large to discover and meet 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, librarians listen to the community they serve, and they respond.
The public library serves Switzerland County by providing books, DVDs, magazines, ebooks, audio books, public computers with Internet access, wireless Internet, and a variety of programs for all ages. This year marks the 100th anniversary of the formation of a library in Vevay, and in 1917, the library will celebrate 100 years as a county-wide system.
“The library has always been a place of unlimited possibilities,” said Board President Denise Crawford. “Whatever your interest or need, the library and the library staff are here to provide you the resources you need to accomplish your goals and dreams.”
The Switzerland County Public Library is celebrating National Library Week by asking its patrons “Why did YOU come to the library today?”. Responses will be collected and compiled for a display.
On Tuesday, April 14th, cake and punch will be available all day.
First sponsored in 1958, National Library Week is a national observance sponsored by the American Library Association (ALA) and libraries across the country each April.
For more information, visit the Switzerland County Public Library at 205 Ferry Street, call (812) 427-3363, or see the library’s website at www.scpl.us. Library hours are Monday-Friday 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Friday and Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.