Many people remember visiting a library as a child or maybe for a research paper as a student—but let me assure you, the library you may remember is not the library of today. Card catalogs and shushing librarians have advanced to innovative technologies and collaborative initiatives. To celebrate libraries, Welcome to Your Library is the theme for National Library Week (Sunday, April 4 to Saturday, April 10). The theme promotes the idea that libraries extend far beyond the walls of a building—and that everyone is welcome.
For eight years I have had the privilege to tell many stories of how the Library generates change and transforms lives for Vigo County individuals, families, and organizations. From entrepreneurs launching a business to residents becoming US citizens to separated families reuniting—the Vigo County Public Library team has created an environment of opportunity in which people can explore, expand their perspectives, and transform their own lives and the lives of future generations.
Libraries of today are vibrant centers of a community—a place for all people to gather and exchange ideas, learn something new, and to simply have fun. As such, we are uniquely positioned in the community as a neutral and welcoming space that is used by all people. Libraries, as community hubs, serve as a place to meet your neighbors, make new connections, and build community pride.
During the pandemic, libraries have been going above and beyond to adapt to our changing world by expanding services to exceed the needs of our communities. Whether people visit in person or virtually, libraries offer opportunities for everyone to explore new worlds and become their best selves. Library customers are happy to share their adoration of expanded services like curbside pickup, home delivery, 24/7 parking lot WiFi, and virtual storytimes. While only one week is set aside to celebrate National Library Week, you can find Vigo County Public Library customers celebrating year-round.
Elizabeth Scamihorn is the Strategic Communications Manager at the Vigo County Public Library. She develops partnerships and initiatives that translate into resources and relationships to position VCPL as a community cornerstone and a catalyst for innovation while directing the strategic communication efforts to generate awareness of Library resources and services.