The library world buzzes almost constantly - something that most people outside libraries often don't know. I suppose this is true of many organizations and institutions, but I think it's especially true with libraries in this internet / videogame / DVR kind of world we live in now. Those who don't regularly visit their public libraries, who aren't aficionados, tend to have a mental image of a historic and/or functional government building with shelves and shelves of books, a few tables, tax forms and perhaps a few computers.
This week I've worked on informational and promotional materials for two library events, and those activities brought home (again) the amazing scope of activities and possibilities that public libraries provide. It's not just about the books - and I love the books. It's more than catching up on magazines and newspapers, or bringing the kids in for storytime. It's about information - and the freedom and ability to access that information. It's about having a place where people who need information can find it - and with the ever increasing amount of information on the web, libraries - and the librarians within them - are more important than ever.
There have been quite a number of media stories about how people are flocking to public libraries because of the economic crisis - for a myriad of reasons: free access to books, CDs and DVDs, free / inexpensive programming and entertainment, homework help. Of course, all of those things were available before the banks and industries started crumbling at bases of their clay feet - but they've become more important to more people as money gets tighter. Rather than spending money with Barnes & Noble, Amazon, Blockbuster, Target and Regal Cinemas, people find books, CDs and DVDs at the library. The Tennessee Electronic Library provides magazines and newspapers online for the state's citizens - so if finances force you to cancel your subscription to People, Newsweek or PC Magazine along with your expensive local cable access, you can find articles online. You can also use TEL to help with your kid's homework . . . or to research for your job - or the job you will be applying for.
One of the most striking, though not surprising, trends is the number of people turning to their libraries to help them find a job. Many employers - including some low-tech/no-tech ones that would surprise you - require online applications. Workers who've been laid off often need training, and to prepare for entry into a new career. People who had been with the same company for 33 years suddenly need a resume. What did your resume and job application look like - in 1976? I was in elementary school . . .
American communities need libraries more than ever. In a time where budgets are tight, and cuts are common - let's not cut our library services.
This week I've worked on informational and promotional materials for two library events, and those activities brought home (again) the amazing scope of activities and possibilities that public libraries provide. It's not just about the books - and I love the books. It's more than catching up on magazines and newspapers, or bringing the kids in for storytime. It's about information - and the freedom and ability to access that information. It's about having a place where people who need information can find it - and with the ever increasing amount of information on the web, libraries - and the librarians within them - are more important than ever.
There have been quite a number of media stories about how people are flocking to public libraries because of the economic crisis - for a myriad of reasons: free access to books, CDs and DVDs, free / inexpensive programming and entertainment, homework help. Of course, all of those things were available before the banks and industries started crumbling at bases of their clay feet - but they've become more important to more people as money gets tighter. Rather than spending money with Barnes & Noble, Amazon, Blockbuster, Target and Regal Cinemas, people find books, CDs and DVDs at the library. The Tennessee Electronic Library provides magazines and newspapers online for the state's citizens - so if finances force you to cancel your subscription to People, Newsweek or PC Magazine along with your expensive local cable access, you can find articles online. You can also use TEL to help with your kid's homework . . . or to research for your job - or the job you will be applying for.
One of the most striking, though not surprising, trends is the number of people turning to their libraries to help them find a job. Many employers - including some low-tech/no-tech ones that would surprise you - require online applications. Workers who've been laid off often need training, and to prepare for entry into a new career. People who had been with the same company for 33 years suddenly need a resume. What did your resume and job application look like - in 1976? I was in elementary school . . .
American communities need libraries more than ever. In a time where budgets are tight, and cuts are common - let's not cut our library services.
