King County Council recognizes National Library Week

Richmond Beach Library
Photo by Steven H. Robinson

Libraries can be large, they can be small, and they can even be on wheels. The one thing they have in common? Books, lots and lots of books!

On Monday the Metropolitan King County Council joined the King County Library System (KCLS) and libraries across America in proclaiming the week of April 8-14 as “National Library Week” in celebration of the facilities that still play a vital role in educating and entertaining the public.

“Robust public libraries serve as a major asset to our community by providing access to ideas and information for our residents, regardless of class,” said Council Chair Joe McDermott. “Ensuring that access, and the empowerment it provides, is imperative as we continue ensure that King County is a welcoming place where all people can prosper.”

Shoreline Library
Photo by Steven H. Robinson

This year marks the 60th Anniversary of National Library Week, which was developed in response to the growing concern that technology was taking away from reading!

“National Library Week is the time set aside each year to celebrate the work of libraries, librarians, and library staff,” said KCLS Director Lisa Rosenblum. “Along with the King County Council, I am pleased to take this opportunity to recognize the important role public libraries have in promoting literacy and connecting communities with ideas and information.”

In the mid 50’s the “new technology” was TV’s and radios instead of computers and video games, but the American Library Association and American Book Publishers wanted to remind people of the joy of going to the library and getting a book. The theme of the first National Library Week in 1958 was "Wake Up and Read!

Lake Forest Park Library
Photo by Jerry Pickard

National Library Week has grown from encouraging people to read in their free time to focusing on developing a “happy life.” Today it celebrates the dozens of the options that are available inside libraries—books, videos, music as well as educational programs.

The King County Library System joins the celebration serving over 1.4 million residents in nearly every part of King County and circulating over 21 million items.

KCLS has served as King County’s rural library district since 1942 and is governed by a seven-member Board of Trustees. Trustees are appointed by the King County Executive and confirmed by the King County Council.