by Emily Glimco, Communications & Marketing Coordinator, March 2022
Libraries have evolved to be so much more than silent spaces filled with books; they are now vibrant community hubs where people can come to explore new things, learn valuable skills, and connect with each other (in addition to checking out books, equipment, and more).
Libraries truly have something for everyone, and the best part is that using the library can even help save you money! In celebration of National Library Week (Apr. 3-9, 2022), we’re shining a spotlight on 5 key ways libraries support their communities.
Empowerment
When every member of a community has the tools they need to improve their lives, everyone benefits! No matter who you are or what you want to accomplish, your local library can help you achieve your goals. At the Addison Public Library, you can use our free services to do things like:
- Connect with our Social Services Coordinator for help finding counseling, food or housing assistance, and more
- Get help with immigration forms
- Improve your English
- Get help using technology
- Find voter information and register to vote
Not sure what you need to get started? You can book a 1-on-1 appointment with library staff for help finding the right tools or learning how to use library resources and services.
Education
Libraries offer learning opportunities for people of all ages, even children who are too young to enter school. When caregivers build their child’s literacy skills at an early age, they help them build important skills needed to succeed in school. At the Addison Public Library, you can schedule an appointment with Children’s Services staff to learn how to boost your little one’s development through reading and can attend story times and other programs, too.
Even when children enter school, the library is there to support them! Students at all grade levels can use their library cards to access free homework help online, or they can attend in-person homework help at the library during the school year. Students can also get personalized help from our librarians on topics like math, reading, or help with research projects during 1-on-1 appointments.
Learners of all ages can book a study room to work on projects, and adults living in Addison can even earn their high school diploma through the library.
Employment
Helping people secure employment is another way libraries help their communities thrive. According to ilovelibraries.org, 300,000 Americans get job search help at their local library every day!
The Addison Public Library can help you find a job, too. You can request 1-on-1 help with your resume or cover letter, use your library card to learn a new skill online, explore our upcoming job seeker workshops, or pick up a New Job Toolkit near the 2nd floor service desk. No matter where you are in life, we are here to help you take the next step in your career.
Entrepreneurship
Did you know libraries also support their communities economically by helping local businesses succeed? Whether you already run a business or want to start one, you can go to your local library for help. Any member of the Addison business community can get a library card for their business to get access to the library’s resources. You can also:
- Fill out a Business Needs Assessment to receive personalized assistance from the library
- Borrow technology like wi-fi hotspots and virtual meeting streaming kits
- Attend business workshops to learn new skills
- Book a meeting room or study room to meet and collaborate with others
- Use our large format printer to create posters or banners
Engagement
During the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, many people missed having opportunities to gather with friends and family and meet new people at social events. Now that in-person programming has returned, libraries are once again great places to connect with people.
Whether you live in Addison or a neighboring community, you are invited to explore our upcoming events to find something that excites you. Whether you’d like to attend a crafting program or technology class, go to a book discussion or talk about politics, or bring your child or teen to a library event, there are plenty of opportunities to connect with your neighbors at the library.