By Margaret Petty
SBCPL Library Director
As we slide into February after a fun-filled, snowy January, we start thinking about Valentine’s Day and Love. We often use the term without thinking, but nothing warms your heart like someone telling you they “Love you.” I still get a thrill when my husband kisses me and tells me, “Love you,” before heading to work each morning and when my boys, ages 5 and 2, hug me and tell me “Wuv you, Mama!” It blesses my heart like nothing else!
As a librarian, hardly a day goes by without someone telling me they “love” a certain author, book series, or just the library in general. This is what makes my job fun and so worth it!
Libraries began using the phrase “Love Your Library” several years ago to get people to show their appreciation for their local libraries. In 2005, former New York State Senator, Hugh T. Farley announced that New York would be making a “Love your Library” license plate available for its drivers. Proceeds from this specialty plate go to help fund the New York Libraries Summer Reading Program.
What a novel idea and such an easy way to show support for your libraries and the programs they offer! Kudos to New York for continuing to offer this license plate today!
People often want to purchase book bags, t-shirts, or special items with the library logo on them to show that they love reading, as well as their library! We do offer several forms of “Library Swag” at the Shelbyville-Bedford County Public Library, so stop by and check it out!
However, many people don’t realize that there are many things to love about the library these days, not just books! Libraries have grown over the past 30 years to include many resources that are not always traditional. I doubt there are many libraries left that don’t include Public Use Computers, Wi-Fi access, Hot Spots, tablets, Chromebooks, study rooms, meeting rooms, Makerspace areas, Lego programs, STEAM programs, and so many more non-book offerings.
A new addition to many libraries is a “Library of Things.” These are items such as cake pans, cookie cutters, tools, toys, crafting items, party decorations, and other non-traditional items that patrons can check out for use in their home – just like you would check out a book. SBCPL is currently making plans for a Library of Things, so stay tuned!
During the month of February we hope you will stop by SBCPL and tell us why you “Love Your Library” by filling out a paper heart to fill the “Window of Hearts” that will be displayed throughout the month. Also join us for some of our fun events, such as “Library Lovers’ Day” on February 14 and Leap Year Binglow (Glow-in-the-dark Bingo) on February 29. For more information on these and other events visit our website, sbcplibrary.org.
So, as you can see today’s libraries offer many reasons to “Love Your Library”! See you soon!
