State official urges residents to use libraries
To the editor:
As an educator, administrator, former Akron City Schools superintendent, and now as your state representative, I would like to encourage people of every age to get or renew a library card. This letter is to remind everyone that September is National Library Card Sign-Up Month.
Going to the library today is not what some of us may remember. The libraries have come of age with computer technology, displays and classes. Regardless of your age, you will find something to capture your interest and enhance your life. There are classes for everything from language classes for adults and children, to beginning computer classes for senior citizens. There are books, audio books, big print books, movies, magazines, DVDs, music and more.
If you are new to the area, consider taking your children to one of the many workshops or programs, such as “Children’s Fall Story Hours,” “Children’s French Classes” or “Halloween Storytelling.”
It is a great way to meet new people with whom you have something in common, and help your children make friends in their new neighborhood. If you are an adult, book discussion groups provide a good way to stay current and spend time with people with whom you share similar interests and tastes.
No computer at home? Many libraries offer computer classes and e-mail access availability. This service is helpful if you are job hunting, have a hobby you like to research or to e-mail friends.
Knowledgeable library professionals and volunteers are on-hand to work with you as you begin.
All the technology aside, books make good friends for any age group. What other friend will allow you to put them down and pick them up whenever you feel like it? Be on call to keep you company, even in the middle of the night? Not many friends can take you around the block or around the world on adventures. Books grow with you and with your changing interests.
So if you haven’t lately visited a library, let me encourage you to stop at your local library. Please be sure to call ahead or visit the library’s Web site to get information on hours or on specific programs that are of interest to you.
State Rep. Brian Williams (District 41)
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