News Release

MILFORD — This week, April 3-9, Milford Public Library encourages all community members to visit their library in person or online to explore and access services and programs. Milford Public Library offers a wide array of programs and resources that are available in person or from the comfort of home.

National Library Week, April 3-9, a time to highlight the essential role libraries, librarians and library workers play in transforming lives and strengthening communities. The theme for this year’s National Library Week is “Connect with Your Library,” which promotes the idea that libraries are places to get connected to technology by using broadband, computers and other resources.

Libraries also offer opportunities to connect with media, programs, and ideas, in addition to books. Most importantly, libraries also connect communities to each other.

Libraries of all types continue to go above and beyond to keep their communities connected by expanding resources and embracing inclusion in their programming, resources and collections. Libraries across the country are making a difference in people’s lives by providing Wi-Fi access for students and workers who may lack internet access at home.

This National Library Week, the public can show their appreciation and support for libraries by visiting their library in person or online, following them on social media and using the hashtag #NationalLibraryWeek.

First sponsored in 1958, National Library Week is a national observance sponsored by the American Library Association and libraries of all types across the country each April.

For more information, visit the library’s website at www.milford.lib.in.us.

Library Awarded ARPA Grant

The Milford Public Library has received a grant in the amount of $10,000 to rework its layout to better serve patrons in a post-pandemic world. Instead of having desktop public access computers, laptops will be available to use on the adult floor of the library, thus allowing patrons the opportunity to social distance while using the library’s internet service.

New furniture has been purchased to create a better seating environment so patrons will be able to more easily self distance from others using the library. The new furniture is designed to be easily cleaned and sanitized, and created for comfort as well as equipped with built-in charging stations for patrons to use when charging their devices.

“We are very excited about receiving this grant. This money gives us a chance to respond to the social and physical changes COVID-19 has brought without putting any undo stress on our general budget and our taxpayers. We can make sure our patrons are as safe and comfortable as possible while using the library,” said Julia Frew, director of the library.

This project is supported by the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the American Rescue Plan Act, administered by the Indiana State Library.

The Institute of Museum and Library Services is the primary source of federal support for the nation’s 123,000 libraries and 35,000 museums. Their mission has been to inspire libraries and museums to advance innovation, lifelong learning, and cultural and civic engagement. For the past 20 years, IMLS’s grant making, policy development, and research has helped libraries and museums deliver valuable services that make it possible for communities and individuals to thrive. To learn more, visit www.imls.gov and follow IMLS on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

April Lego Challenge

The April LEGO Challenge is to make a hot air balloon. Send a picture to the email below to be considered for this month’s prize drawing. The hot air balloon can be large or small, colorful or anything else you want. Use your imagination. The staff is excited to see what you make. After you’ve built your hot air balloon, submit a photo to [email protected] by April 25 for a chance to win a new LEGO Kit. The winner will be picked by staff vote. No library card needed.This challenge is for children ages 18 and under.