Celebrate National Library Week April 7-13 with “Ready, Set, Library!”
By Allen McGinley
National Library Week is an annual celebration highlighting the valuable roles libraries, librarians and library workers play in transforming lives and strengthening communities.
“Libraries connect our communities and enrich our lives in ways we may not realize,” says Meg Medina, National Library Week Honorary Chair. “And one of my greatest pleasures is discovering the unexpected and beautiful things libraries offer.”
And our library in Westfield is no exception, serving as the community’s primary destination for early childhood literacy, civic engagement, and lifelong learning.
In 2023, Westfield saw dramatic increases in library usage, with more than 87,000 visits, 288,000 books borrowed, and 21,000 attendees at programs and events.
“We’ve been seeing a significant increase in library usage over the past few years,” says Allen McGinley, Library Director. “Particularly post-pandemic, we’re seeing an incredible demand for space, books, and other resources from students, hybrid and remote workers, scouts, and various community organizations.”
And this increased usage has continued into 2024. “Programs and events are a significant reason for the increased traffic,” says McGinley. “Early childhood literacy events hosted by our children’s librarians are often drawing crowds of 50-100 children with caregivers.”
“The library has become a vibrant and dynamic part of Westfield, and we’re looking forward to continuing to grow with the community.”
If you don’t already have a valid Westfield library card, National Library Week is the perfect opportunity to stop in and get your card. Beginning April 7, the library will be offering a special limited-edition card. The card is free for residents who do not have one, and just $2.00 for a replacement card.
A library card is your free ticket to borrow books, audiobooks, movies, museum passes, mobile WiFi hotspots, and more from the library. You can also use it to download eBooks and eAudiobooks from Libby and hoopla, stream films and TV shows from Kanopy and music from Freegal. And you can access the library’s premium digital platforms including Mango Languages and LinkedIn Learning.
Keep your eye on the library’s website www.wmlnj.org for more information. The library is located at 550 East Broad Street, 908.789.4090. Happy Library Week!