In partnership with the Lebanon County Library Association, LebTown is proud to introduce “Library Letters,” a series of columns about the programming, people, and possibilities offered by libraries around the county.
Today’s letter is from Michelle Hawk, Director, Lebanon Community Library.
There have been many silver linings to the cloud that is 2020. Although our building was closed for twelve weeks, we heard from you online, helped you sign up for library cards, borrow and download ebooks and eaudiobooks, access online resources, and view storytimes created by our beloved children’s staff. You shared how much you missed coming to the library, seeing the staff, browsing the books, or using our computers to keep in touch with family and friends. Your comments and stories remind us of the difference we make in your lives and why we do this work.
Public libraries have been an essential part of our country for centuries, and it’s difficult to imagine our communities without them. They are not only a part of our lives, but they change lives by opening doors to new ideas and opportunities that some people may not otherwise be able to access.
Our library serves everyone regardless of income, education, physical ability, or background. We provide resources for students, job-seekers, families, and lifelong learners. For many people, libraries provide resources that they could not otherwise afford – resources they need to live, learn, and work. And for children, they launch a lifetime of learning, enrichment, and success.
The Lebanon Community Library is an invaluable resource for children and adults. In 2019, residents of Lebanon and the surrounding area:
- Made 195,000 visits to the library
- Borrowed 284,000 books and other materials
- Attended 270 free programs
- Took advantage of 93,000 free computer and wifi sessions.
The library normally has two fundraisers each year: the Benefit for the Children’s Department (usually held in the spring), and the Buy-A-Book mailing campaign. This year, all of our eggs are one basket with a mailing/online fundraiser. You might have received something in the mail, or seen it on facebook or our website. We are asking for your help in ensuring that the library can continue providing valuable, life-changing services to our community. Please consider donating! Your contribution is vital to the future of the library. Visit Lebanon.lclibs.org/donate.
We hope you’ll join us Saturday, Nov. 28 from 12-4pm for a storywalk during Small Business Saturday! Take a walk through downtown Lebanon while following along with a story, placed in the windows of local businesses. Start at the library for directions to the first location (or find them on our website: lebanon.lclibs.org), and find directions to the next spot at each local business. Finish back at the library for hot chocolate and a snack!
Support YOUR local library! Our other libraries in Lebanon County are also holding fundraisers:
Annville Free Library: donate to their holiday fundraiser.
Palmyra Public Library: donate to their annual campaign, sponsor a periodical, or buy a holiday ornament.
Richland Community Library: purchase a Hometown Proud garden flag (order deadline is November 18), or soup and bread the 2nd Wednesday of each month.