Support Local Libraries
Contributed by Kathy Kysar
Libraries are important for a plethora of reasons. Here are just a few:
Access to information-
Libraries provide a wide range of resources such as books, magazines, newspapers, and digital materials that allow individuals to access and expand their knowledge. They are often repositories of important historical and cultural documents, making them valuable for research and education. They even have books on CD, movies and TV shows on DVDs, and the latest craft how-to’s and cookbooks.
Promoting literacy and education-
Libraries play a crucial role in promoting literacy, especially among children and disadvantaged communities. They offer reading programs, workshops, and educational resources that foster a love for reading, improve literacy skills, and enable lifelong learning. They even have Book Clubs that you can join, free of charge.
Equal access to information and lifelong learning-
Libraries provide free or low-cost access to information and resources, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their economic or social background, has the opportunity to learn and grow. This helps bridge the digital divide and promotes equal opportunities. They offer a wide range of educational and self-development materials, including books, courses, and workshops. They encourage individuals of all ages to continue learning, exploring new interests, and expanding their horizons. When my husband and I decided to raise chickens last spring, we checked out books from the library to educate ourselves. Whenever I want to try a new cuisine or a new craft, I head to the library first.
Community gathering spaces-
Libraries serve as community hubs where people can gather, connect, and engage with others. They often offer meeting rooms, host events, and provide a comfortable environment for studying, working, or simply relaxing. Local city councils, gardening clubs, knitting groups, game nights, movie nights, travel presentations, concerts, teen clubs, homeschool programs, and on and on, meet at your local library! Our local library is where I initially made friends when we first moved to Sutton.
Preservation of knowledge-
Libraries play a vital role in preserving and archiving books, documents, and other cultural artifacts. By safeguarding this knowledge, libraries contribute to the preservation of human history and heritage for future generations. My husband even came across a picture of his uncle operating a barge in Bethel 50 years ago in a random book in our local Sutton library.
Support for local businesses and entrepreneurs-
Libraries often provide resources and services to support local businesses and entrepreneurs. They may offer business databases, market research tools, and workshops on various business topics, helping individuals and small businesses thrive in their communities. Our Sutton Library is where people sign up to work at the recycling center at our local transfer station. It’s where we have a Holiday Bazaar for folks to sell their wares. In the summer, you can even find plants and vegetables for sale.
Digital literacy and technology access-
Libraries provide access to computers, internet, and other digital resources, helping individuals develop essential digital literacy skills. This is particularly important for those who may not have access to technology at home, allowing them to apply for jobs online, complete school assignments, and access online services. Our library was a haven for me when we were having an addition put on to our house last summer. I work from home as an instructor for UAF and the noise drove me to the library to work in a quiet room with a window looking out over their courtyard, filled with beautiful flowers.
Safety-
This may be the most important reason why libraries are important. While libraries are not substitutes for shelters, counseling centers, or long-term systemic solutions to homelessness, they are vital to public health and safety, offering people experiencing homelessness a safe and dignified space throughout the day. When I was growing up, I spent many hours in my local library because I needed a place to escape the abuse at home and the bullying at school and on the playground. I could stay as long as I wanted, no questions asked. It was where I discovered Laura Ingalls Wilder and National Geographic World Magazine for kids.
If you haven’t been to your local library lately, go. Tell the librarians how thankful you are for their dedication and hard work. It is the single most important free resource available to you!
Respectfully, Kathy Kysar
Member, Sutton Friends of the Library
Secretary, Mat-Su Borough Library Board