Our favorite week of the year is just around the corner!
From April 7–13, communities across the U.S. will come together for National Library Week, the annual celebration of libraries and library workers. This year's theme, "Ready, Set, Library!" is more than just a catchy phrase—it's a call to action for Americans to rediscover the treasure trove of opportunities libraries offer.
During this National Library Week, we invite you to carve out some time to visit your local library. Soak in the welcoming atmosphere. Make new friends at an author talk, workshop, or book club. Or just enjoy a stroll through the stacks to discover your next favorite story. There's something for everyone at the library.
But why stop there? Spread the joy of libraries by inviting your friends and family to join you. Encourage them to sign up for a library card and experience the endless possibilities that libraries provide, from free access to books to a wealth of resources waiting to be explored.
Libraries are a public good, and it’s critical that we champion their cause. Join us in participating in the National Library Week #HowILibrary promotion on social media, where you can share your library experiences and why libraries hold significance for you. If you’re lucky, you might win a prize for sharing your library love!
How to celebrate
Every day of National Library Week is tailor-made to showcase the totality of the library experience, from their role in fighting for intellectual freedom to the crucial work that libraries and library workers do every day to highlighting the role libraries play in strengthening our democracy.
On Monday, April 8, keep an eye out for the release of the American Library Association’s (ALA) 2024 State of America’s Libraries Report, including a list of the Top 10 Most Challenged Books of 2023. Learn how libraries are continuing to innovate and improve library services, even in the midst of an unprecedented attack on the freedom to read.
ALA recently reported that 4,240 books were challenged for removal at libraries in 2023. Organized pressure groups and individuals are now demanding the censorship of multiple titles, submitting lists containing dozens or sometimes hundreds of titles at one time—despite never having read the books in question. And these groups are especially targeting books by and about people of color and the LGBTQIA+ community.
To counter this surge of challenges, Unite Against Book Bans has designated Monday, April 8, as Right to Read Day, a national day of action for readers, advocates, and library lovers everywhere to stand up to censorship. They have a list of simple steps anyone can take to support the freedom to read. Whether you have 5 minutes or 30 minutes to help, please commit to taking action and helping spread the word!
Tuesday, April 9, is National Library Workers Day. Take a moment to thank the dedicated staff at your library. Send a quick email or drop by in person to show your appreciation for their hard work and commitment to serving the community. You can give a shout-out to your favorite library worker by submitting a star in their name on the ALA-Allied Professional Association’s Galaxy of Stars.
If you can’t visit your library in person, National Library Outreach Day, Wednesday, April 10, provides an opportunity to acknowledge all the ways that libraries go out of their way to meet you where you are. Whether it's a bookmobile stop at the local elementary school, services provided to community homes, or pop-ups at community gatherings, libraries make sure that these essential resources are accessible to everyone.
On Thursday, April 11, Take Action for Libraries Day, ALA is launching a national campaign to encourage everyone to vote and shine a light on the important role libraries play in supporting voters and our democracy. In an election year, it’s important to spread this important message far and wide.
National Library Week is also a great time to consider supporting your library even further by joining its Friends Group, volunteering your time, or making a donation. Every contribution, no matter how small, helps ensure that libraries continue to thrive as pillars of our communities.
So, get ready to embrace the spirit of National Library Week! Explore the wonders of your library, and join us in celebrating the invaluable role libraries play in enriching our lives.
Let's make this National Library Week one to remember!
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