From the April 11, 2002 edition of The Wayne Herald:
Rediscover America during National Library Week
Free countries need free libraries. Americans depend on libraries to learn to read, to go online, to research vital health facts, to find a job, to understand world events, to explore business opportunities, to seek inspiration and to find food for the soul.
This year the Wayne Public Library, Wayne Community School libraries, and the American Library Association celebrate the vital role our libraries play in our democracy.
National Library Week, April 14-20, marks the kickoff of Rediscover America@yourlibrary™ —a nationwide initiative to focus on our national heritage and remind decisionmakers that libraries and librarians are needed now—more than ever.
One of the things librarians have discovered in the aftermath of Sept. 11, is that many people are taking a fresh interest in what it means to be an American, especially in today's global society.
Increasingly, libraries are being called upon to do what they do best— to serve as community resource centers and provide open access to information.
Every library—whether school, public or college—has something unique to offer that ties its community to the very concept of a free people in a free land.
Rediscover America@yourlibrary™ is the newest phase of The Campaign for America's Libraries, a five-year public education campaign to speak loudly and clearly about the value of libraries and librarians in the 21st century. The campaign launched last year in
Washington, D.C., with the help of First Lady Laura Bush.
Tha campaign emerged from research that shows while libraries are popular and rooted in nearly every community—including schools, campuses and businesses across the country—they are often not highly visible. Visit your local libraries to find out about special activities offered during National Library Week!
