Warsaw Community Public Library patrons recently enjoyed sharing stories and activities at the Pete Thorn Center.

By Melissa Chapman,
Cataloging Supervisor

For more than 60 years, National Library Week has celebrated the contributions of libraries and library workers. The first NLW was observed in 1958 with the theme “Wake Up and Read.” It has continued yearly. The week of April 7-13 is 2019’s National Library Week. The theme this year is “Libraries=Strong Communities.” This year’s theme illustrates how today’s libraries are the heart of our communities, providing critical resources, programs and expertise.

National Library Week is a time to celebrate the awesomeness of libraries. A library transforms lives and strengthens communities as well as provides a public place where all community members can come together to connect and learn. A library’s programs are designed to encourage a community to meet and discuss civic issues, as well as work together using new technologies.

The Warsaw Community Public Library has a plethora of activities and programs going on to celebrate National Library Week.

Free Popcorn will be given every day from 2 to 4 p.m. during NLW. Also checking out items during National Library Week will allow people a chance to win some 3D printing.

There will be a kids escape room all day Thursday, April 11 and then on Friday, April 12, in the afternoon. Groups can sign up for a 35-minute time slot at the children’s desk or by calling the library at (574) 267-6011. The theme of the escape room is “sea turtles have come ashore and laid eggs and someone gathered them and locked them away and it is the job of the group to find clues so the eggs can be released before they hatch.”

The Children’s Department will also have a coloring contest all week. Kids can color the first letter of their name, and submit it to display in the Children’s area. At the end of the week, three winners will be chosen for a prize.

On Wednesday, April 10 from 6 to 8 p.m., a James Whitcomb Riley impersonator, portrayed by professional actor Danny Russel, will share amusing shenanigans as well as perform his best-loved poetry. Please register for this event you will not be disappointed.

You can also celebrate and support National Library Week by adding #NationalLibraryWeek to all your social media postings.

No matter your connection to the library, NLW is a chance to show your appreciation. Why not visit Warsaw Community Public Library or your local library and give your library card a workout?