National Library Week, April 6–12, is a time to celebrate the many ways libraries bring people together, spark imagination, and support lifelong learning. This year’s theme is “Drawn to the Library”.

What draws people to the library? Everything!

From books, digital news and audiobooks to free computer classes, author talks, adults creative nights, and family-friendly programming all year long, libraries are essential to thriving communities. Libraries serve as helpful community hubs for people of all ages and backgrounds to explore new ideas and opportunities. Longmont Library card holders can even check out items from our physical collections, like sewing machines, backpacks and field guides, telescopes, and household tools.

Whether you’re a longtime patron or haven’t visited in awhile, now is the perfect time to explore all the Library has to offer.

Here are a few special upcoming events at the Library:

• • Author Talk: Laura Pritchett – Monday, April 28, 6-7 pm in the Library Meeting Rooms. Laura Pritchett is the author of seven novels. Known for championing the complex and contemporary West and giving voice to the working class, her books have garnered the PEN USA Award, Milkweed National Fiction Prize, and others. She will speak about her newest novel, Three Keys.

  • Film Screening – Free for All: Inside the Public Library – Thursday, May 15, 6-7:30 pm at the City Council Chambers. A documentary about the history and impact of public libraries. From stories about the pioneers of the “Free Library Movement” to today’s librarians facing challenges like book bans and closures, this film shows why libraries matter. Free to attend, bring a friend!

  • Summer Reading Launch Party at Sunset Pool – Thursday, May 22, 5-7 pm at Sunset Pool, 1900 Longs Peak Ave. Be the first to test out the water at Sunset Pool before it opens to the public. Librarians will be available to talk about all things Summer Reading and hand out Summer Reading BINGO boards and Summer brochures. There will be snacks, drinks, and a fun craft.

Have a bit more time? Consider helping libraries (including ours) by doing the following:

• Get involved with The Friends of the Longmont Library. Become a member, make a donation, donate items or volunteer

• Engage with national library advocacy sites such as ilovelibraries.org and ALA.org

• Check out a banned book (ask a librarian to introduce you to one; you might be surprised what’s on the list!)

• Register to vote (the Right to Read is on the ballot in many communities; vote in all elections, including school boards)

• Report censorship

• Get a free library card (the most powerful card in your wallet!)

• Send a digital postcard to the Longmont Library on Right to Read Day, Thursday, April 8

First celebrated 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.