A Love of Reading: Celebrating National Library Week

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A Love of Reading: Celebrating National Library Week Vanessa Santamaria Contributor Miami Moms Blog
First visit to our public library

Did you know that April 7-13 is National Library Week?

I took my daughters to our local public library for the first time this past week and they loved it. My oldest, who’s 7 years old, loves to read. She has been asking to visit a library for some time. My little one is 5, so she’s still learning to read. But she’s enthusiastic and pretends to read chapter books just like her big sister.

They were so excited they could barely contain themselves, going from one rack to another. Each time they saw a book they wanted their eyes just lit up and they quietly did a little happy dance. Of course, I had warned them to be quiet before entering as I knew they’d be elated.

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Getting a library membership was easy. I applied for a library card online and I just had to show my ID at the branch I selected to retrieve my card. I must admit I was really impressed with how well-stocked, modern and comfortable the library was. And the staff was so helpful! They even had movies and audiobooks to check out. My kids checked out 10 books between them and I put in a request for an audiobook I’ve been wanting to listen to. There’s a waitlist for it, so they’ll notify me via text message when it arrives at the branch.

Not Just Books

In addition to books, the library offers computer access and Wi-Fi. It’s a great place for students to do their homework and even meet with a tutor. Several branches also offer unique and fun-filled events such as story time for babies and toddlers, book club meet-ups, poetry sessions, meditation circles, craft times and much more. Visit the Miami-Dade Public Library System website to locate a branch near you and find out what upcoming events they are hosting.

A Love of Reading: Celebrating National Library Week Vanessa Santamaria Contributor Miami Moms Blog
Reading books at the library

I hope you will join me in celebrating National Library Week, too! This annual event highlights the role that libraries and their employees have in strengthening our communities. This year’s theme is Libraries = Strong Communities, which illustrates how important libraries are to our cities, towns, and schools because they provide critical resources and programs. Libraries are also wonderful places where people from all cultural and economic backgrounds can come together to connect and learn.

If you’re wondering how you can join in the fun and celebrate National Library Week, here are a few ideas:

  1. Visit your local library. Check out what’s new and share the experience with your kids.
  2. Share your library story. Post photos and videos on your social media during National Library Week and share what you love most about your library. Use the hashtag #MyLibraryMyStory on Instagram or Twitter or on the I Love Libraries Facebook page for a chance to win a $100 VISA gift card. Click here for more information.
  3. Show your support on social media. Follow your library, the American Library Association, and I Love Libraries. Join the celebration by using the hashtags #NationalLibraryWeek and #LibrariesTransform.

What’s YOUR library story? I’d love to hear about your library experience or your child’s first visit!