Libraries strengthen communities: Celebrate National Library Week

This week, the Hastings Memorial Library joins libraries of all types in celebrating the many ways libraries build strong communities by providing critical resources, programs and expertise.  

April 7-13 is National Library Week, an annual celebration highlighting the valuable role libraries, librarians, and library workers play in transforming lives and communities. Libraries are at the heart of their communities; a place where people of all backgrounds can come together and connect. 

Library programs encourage community members to meet to discuss civic issues, work together using new technologies like 3D printing, or learn alongside one another in various programs and classes. Library staff also partner with other civic and service organizations to actively engage with the people they serve, always striving to make sure their community’s core needs are being met.

Hastings Memorial Library helps lead the community by providing materials, programming, and resources to assist in their pursuit of lifelong learning, cultural enrichment, recreation, and solutions to everyday problems. 

Whether it is through storytimes, after-school programs, or the forthcoming Makerspace project, the library is always evolving to meet the changing needs of the community.  

“Libraries are cornerstones of democracy, promoting the free exchange of information and ideas for all,” said Robin Quinn, Library Director. “They also foster civic engagement by keeping people informed and aware of community events and issues.”

Hastings Memorial Library is celebrating National Library Week by providing goodies to patrons, hosting a silent auction and promoting their upcoming Adult Reading Program, which starts April 22.  

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 Hastings Memorial Library at 505 Central Avenue in Grant, call 308-352-4894, visit the library’s website at libraries.ne.gov/grant, or find us on Facebook at Hastings Memorial Library.  Library hours are 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. to  5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday.