National Library Week: April 23-29

Mary Riley Styles Public Library encourages all community members to visit the library during National Library Week, April 7-13, to explore all we have to offer!

Most people know about the wealth of stories available at the library, from picture books and large print to audiobooks and ebooks. But there's so much more to the story of libraries.

Libraries are welcoming spaces that bring communities together for entertainment, education, and connection through book clubs, storytimes, movie nights, crafting classes, lectures, and more. MRSPL offers a wide array of programs, classes and resources, including weekly mindfulness meditation sessions, a knitting group, and after school activities on early release days.

And libraries play a critical role in the economic vitality of communities by providing internet and technology access, literacy skills, and support for job seekers, small businesses, and entrepreneurs.

If you haven't checked out MRSPL lately, you're missing the full story. Stop by for a visit to celebrate with us during National Library Week, April 7-13. Follow us on social media using the hashtags #TheLittleCityLibrary, #MyLibraryStory, and #NationalLibraryWeek to join the online celebration:

First sponsored in 1958, National Library Week is a national observance sponsored by the American Library Association and libraries of all types across the country each April. Learn more about the history of National Library week...

How to Celebrate

1. Visit the library!

Bring the kids or invite your friends. Meet the librarians. Check out books or other great items in our collection or attend one of our programs. View MRSPL Events Calendar...

2. Share your library story.

National Library Week Honorary Chair Kelly Yang found the courage to pursue her dreams through access to resources at her childhood library and the support of librarians. What role has the library played in your life? Did you find inspiration in a book? Get help finding a job or starting a business? Have you made new friends at the library? If you love your library, help us make some noise during National Library Week! There's never been a more important moment to show your support. #MyLibraryStory #NationalLibraryWeek #TheLittleCityLibrary

The State of America's Libraries 2024

In 2022, the global COVID-19 pandemic entered its third year; political, economic and digital divides grew; and book challenges and bans surged across the country. ALA’s Office for Intellectual Freedom tracked a record 1,269 book challenges, the highest number of demands to ban books reported since they began compiling data about censorship in libraries. But despite all these challenges, libraries thrived, pivoting to offer new and updated services to their communities. Adaptation and innovation shined in 2022, proving that there truly is “more to the story” at libraries.