By Senator Patty Ritchie
Each and every day, libraries across our region, as well as our state, open their doors and invite patrons into a world of knowledge, learning and entertainment.
From April 10 to 16, we recognize libraries for the tremendous services they provide to our communities, as well as promote their use through “National Library Week.”
Established in 1958 with a goal of encouraging more people to read, National Library Week is sponsored by the American Library Association.
Every year, the association selects a theme, and this year’s is “Libraries Transform.”
Special celebrations throughout the week include National Library Workers Day, which is held on April 12 to recognize the efforts of all who make our libraries such great centers of learning.
Libraries throughout our region will be hosting other special events too, and I encourage you to call your local library, or visit its website to find more information.
As a member of the Senate Select Committee on Libraries, as well as a book lover, I’ve been proud in recent years to support our libraries in their quest to connect the public with increased opportunities for learning.
My recent efforts include working to secure increased funding for our libraries, which has helped them to make building improvements, expand services and more.
Thanking our local libraries for the work they do has also been a priority for me.
And, just last year, I was given the opportunity to recognize 43 local libraries and 55 librarians in our region through my “Love Your Library” program.
Here in Central and Northern New York, we are fortunate to have one of the largest concentrations of libraries in New York State, with more than 50 public libraries in Oswego, Jefferson and St. Lawrence counties.
From books and magazines to new technology and community programs, during National Library Week, and throughout the year, I hope you’ll support our local libraries by taking advantage of all they have to offer.
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In any community, the public library is a way to get to know the lay of the land…to meet new people, find out about the history of their new region, and, of course, to get delightful reading/viewing/listening materials.
I am not sure people these days truly appreciate their libraries the way the library was appreciated in earlier time. Oswego Public Library, donated by Gerrit Smith, the abolitionist, as one of the first free libraries open to all people (no matter race, creed or … sex…women were not necessarily allowed in libraries up until 1857), and still maintains its castle exterior, while hosting all the modern technological conveniences.
So, if you are new to Oswego, or if you need a refresher from your school days, come visit your local library! There truly IS nothing like it in any town.
Yeah Library Week, ALMOST one hundred and sixty years for the ‘castle on the hill’ in Oswego, NY. A nice place to visit!!! :0)