It's Library Week! Let's Share the Love For Our Libraries and Their Engagement with Communities

Who else spent their childhood summers at the library, marking off their reading goals? As a small-town girl, a trip to the library was magical. My village didn't have a library (although now there's a little library in the post office), so library days were usually weekend entertainment in the next biggest small town. I still remember my membership number (3x) and where my favorite books were located. I've always been a re-reader, and although my TBR pile held several new-to-me books, it also held those constant favorites.

As a teen, I used the card catalog (showing my age) for my research papers. As a mom, I trucked my littles to our Peachtree City library every two weeks. I read through its Agatha Christie collection (again) and would grab one-new-to-me on our way out. As a writer, my favorite events are at libraries.

I wanted to this post to be a tribute to libraries for Library Week. I couldn't imagine my life without them!

Brunswick Stew competition for the launch of Still Life in Brunswick Stew at Peachtree City Library

Building a Strong Sense of Belonging with Fun Programs

Libraries really know how to bring the community together with fun programs. Things like book readings, author signings, and seasonal celebrations give everyone a chance to hang out and connect.

Take National Library Week, for instance. Lots of libraries throw events that shine a spotlight on local authors, showcase local art, or offer fun storytelling sessions for kids. These activities make the library a welcoming place where people can dive into their interests and maybe even find new ones.

Peachtree City Library NaNoWriMo writers

What is Library Talk?

Library talk is all about casual chats that happen in libraries or during library events. It's a great way for folks to share their thoughts and ideas in a friendly space.

These talks can cover anything from books and history to local news. They help build community and let people see things from different angles.

While you might find formal discussions during special events, casual conversations pop up all over the library—whether you’re in a cozy corner or browsing the shelves. If you're interested in setting up library talks, it’s a good idea to connect with some pros in the field.

Chatting with readers at Clover Public Library in Woodhull, IL

The Digital Transformation of Libraries

Libraries are changing with the times! Many now offer digital resources, letting you access books, journals, and more from home. Plus, they've stepped up in-person engagement by hosting virtual events. I love this. As I've gotten older, I prefer using my e-reader to paper books, just because it's convenient to carry, hold, and easier on my eyes (unless I'm at the beach or in a bathtub ;)) If you're the same, check your library for my titles in paper, audiobook, and digital!

During the pandemic, libraries quickly switched to online book clubs, webinars, and virtual storytimes, keeping the community connected and engaged.

Now, a big focus is on digital literacy training. As services go online, libraries are helping folks learn the skills they need to navigate the digital world, from computer basics to social media tips.

The Future of Community Engagement in Libraries

Looking ahead, libraries are set to become even more important as community hubs. They'll keep evolving based on what their communities need.

Getting feedback from the community is key. Libraries that involve patrons in shaping their programs usually see more people participating and feeling satisfied. When residents share their ideas, it helps the library reflect the community better.

There are plenty of cool ways to boost engagement, like pop-up libraries in parks or interactive exhibits showcasing local history. These ideas can draw in folks who don’t usually visit the library.

Embracing the Library Community Spirit

In short, libraries are awesome for bringing people together. They offer fun programs, safe spaces, and digital resources that help everyone connect and feel included.

As libraries keep adapting to what communities need, they stick to their goal of serving everyone. So, next time you're at your local library, remember you're not just grabbing a book—you're joining a community of lifelong learners!

Let’s recognize how valuable libraries are. They’re not just for reading; they’re also about making a difference and building connections. To help out your local library, check out their events, join discussions, or even start your own library chats.

As readers, let’s celebrate libraries by showing them some love!

My childhood library's presentation of my first published work