It's National Library Week (April 8-14)! This week we celebrate nationally the contributions public libraries make to our communities. Libraries
enhance the quality of life in our communities. They provide us with information and materials not readily available elsewhere, a professional staff to
support and assist us, public meeting space with a welcoming atmosphere, and programs and services to accommodate diverse needs and interests. Outside
the educational system the public library is the greatest facilitator of lifelong learning in our community.
In this age of digital information, computers are a necessity for communication and information. Yet, not all individuals have computers and
Internet access at home. Public libraries are the great equalizer in this economic divide. They provide free public access to all. Those on the lower
end of the economic scale are more likely to rely on public libraries for Internet access and computer use. These days, new books are just as likely to
be read from an iPad, iPhone, Kindle, Nook or some other such electronic reader, as they are to be read in the traditional “book” format. The
Encyclopedia Britannica is just now releasing the “last” hardcopy of their illustrious volumes. Times are changing, and the Library is changing to keep
pace! Yet, in this electronic age the most valuable resource is still the professional staff that assists us and teaches us to effectively use these
new tools and resources.
Libraries are also faced with the financial issue of how to keep pace with constant technological change, as well as providing upgraded materials
and resources to meet the increasing demand by patrons. Walter Cronkite said, “Whatever the cost of our libraries, the price is cheap compared to that
of an ignorant nation.” I grew up with Walter Cronkite delivering the evening news to our home each evening. If Walter said it was so, then indeed it
was. We tend to be willing to pay for those things we value.
I sincerely wish the staff, board, and volunteers of our Logan County Public Library a Happy National Library Week. Thank you for the warm
atmosphere, your helpful assistance and, of course, all the wonderful resources you provide us. Despite controversy and criticism, you continue to
provide the highest quality of services. I look forward to the new library and its increased resources, services, programs, meeting space, and parking.
Thank you for the wonderful job you do.