What are you doing April 8th through the 14th?

     We hope you'll be at our library!  That's the Moultrie-Colquitt County Library at 204 5th Street, Southeast, in Moultrie, Georgia.  (Or you can visit in the same building our Odom Genealogical Library or our Doerun Municipal Library at 185 North Freeman Street in Doerun, Georgia.)
     You see, that's the week we celebrate National Library Week.  
     This special Week is a national observance sponsored by the American Library Association (commonly called the ALA) and libraries across the country each April.  It's a time to celebrate the contributions of our nation's libraries and librarians and to promote library use.
      Every day across the country, libraries open their doors to everyone: students, parents, seniors, teachers, writers, artists, job seekers, entrepreneurs, readers, gamers, movie lovers, and travel buffs.
     "Without librarians, I wouldn't be a writer today," bestselling author and Honorary Chair of National Library Week, Brad Meltzer says about the impact of libraries on his life.  (You can find several of his books in our library.)
     Also, spending quality time with our kids and teens is critical to their growth and development - and it fosters strong bonds and relationships.  But, in our fast-paced lives, finding opportunities for quality time together can be a daily challenge.  (In fact, one way to help our teens is the newly created Teen Library Board.  For more information, contact Michele Croft, Children's Library Coordinator.)
      We're working and commuting longer hours.  Our kids' schedules are packed.  Budgets are tight.  And planning even small outings takes time and energy.
     Fortunately, there are a variety of things to do, new adventures to begin, and amazing things to learn - right at your library.  (Keep your eyes open for more information about our upcoming, new adult book club, "Between the Covers.")
     And libraries are the place to connect with your kids.  School and public libraries open up new worlds, spark imagination, encourage reading, help develop critical thinking, and prepare and support kids and teens in school and life.  (Sign-up for the Children's Reading Program in June is all during May.)
     And most of the materials and programs available at your library are free!  (You can receive a free library card just by asking staff at the front counter.)
     On Tuesday, April 10th, we will be celebrating National Library Workers Day.  Our theme for this year is "Libraries Work Because We Do!"  Stop by and say hello, let us know you appreciate having a library card and this public library which is available to you.
     On Wednesday, April 11th, we'll give thanks to Holly and Sheila, our Bookmobile staff, as we celebrate National Bookmobile Day.  After all, if it weren't for them, many people in our surrounding community, who can't make it to the library, would not have good reading material.  They begin their routes again the last of this month after a brief break from traveling.
     And I want to mention a couple of wonderful accomplishments by two of our staff members.  Holly Philips and Michele Croft will receive their Masters in Library and Information Science from Valdosta State University on May 5th.  Congratulations, ladies!  We are so proud of you.
     Remember National Library Week, April 8th through 14th.  "You Belong @ the Library."  We'll be looking for you.