And so it begins...

Hi there readers!

Did you know that this is a very special week in reading?

No?

*GASP!*

Then it's time you were informed for it's officially....

National Library Week

The theme this year (as you can see above) is to "create your own story @ your library".  What a grand idea, don't you think?  Even for those of us that don't necessarily envision ourselves as potential "authors", it's fun to let loose the imagination and allow your creativity to flow.  What better place to do that than in a library where the many inspired works of those that came before you live and breath?

Time for this year's official proclamation....

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National Library Week 2011

Proclamation

WHEREAS, libraries provide free access to all – from books and online resources for families to library business centers that help support entrepreneurship and retraining;

WHEREAS, our nation’s school, academic, public and special libraries make a difference in the lives of millions of Americans today, more than ever;

WHEREAS, librarians are trained professionals, helping people of all ages and backgrounds find and interpret the information they need to live, learn and work in a challenging economy;

WHEREAS, libraries are helping level the playing field for job seekers, with 88% of public libraries providing access to job databases and other online resources;

WHEREAS, libraries are places of opportunity providing programs that teach all forms of literacy, promoting continuing education and encouraging lifelong learning;

WHEREAS, in times of economic hardship, Americans turn to – and depend on – their libraries and librarians;

WHEREAS, libraries, librarians, library workers and supporters across America are celebrating National Library Week.

NOW, THEREFORE, be it resolved that I (the “Insatiable Reader”) proclaim National Library Week, April 10-16, 2011. I encourage all residents to visit the library this week to take advantage of the wonderful library resources available @ your library. Create your own story @ your library.

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It has begun!

Be sure to stop by your local library and check out all the festivities.  In the mean time (or for those of you unable to make it this week), be sure to check out all the happenings online at the official American Library Association (ALA) website.  Planned days so far in the celebration.....

• April – School Library Month

• Monday, April 11 – 2011 State of America's Report released

• Tuesday, April 12 – National Library Workers Day

• Wednesday, April 13 – National Bookmobile Day

• Wednesday, April 13 – 2010 Top Ten Most Banned and Challenged Books announced

• Thursday, April 14 – Support Teen Literature Day

...all this and more can be found at the site.

So help promote literacy AND help support your local library!

It's a nationwide celebration for all those who remain bookish at heart.

Until next time...happy reading!