The theme for National Library Week 2020, "Find your place at the library," was chosen some time ago, before any of us could imagine the emergence of a global pandemic that would force most libraries to temporarily close their physical spaces. But you can still find your place at the library because libraries are open for business online, providing the virtual services and digital content their communities need more than ever. You can access ebooks, movies, music, video games, virtual storytimes and activities, and so much more — all from the the comfort of your home.
- American Library Association
National Library Week is an annual celebration highlighting the valuable role libraries, librarians, and library workers play in transforming lives and strengthening our communities.
In the mid-1950s, research showed that Americans were spending less on books and more on radios, televisions and musical instruments. Concerned that Americans were reading less, the ALA and the American Book Publishers formed a nonprofit citizens organization called the National Book Committee in 1954. The committee's goals were ambitious. They ranged from "encouraging people to read in their increasing leisure time" to "improving incomes and health" and "developing strong and happy family life."
In 1957, the committee developed a plan for National Library Week based on the idea that once people were motivated to read, they would support and use libraries. With the cooperation of ALA and with help from the Advertising Council, the first National Library Week was observed in 1958 with the theme "Wake Up and Read!" The 2018 celebration marked the 60th anniversary of the first event.
- from the American Library Association
"What I love about being a librarian in my community is helping open up new worlds to people and broaden their horizons, whether it's through selecting new books for our collection or helping them find exactly what they need for their next research paper. I love that libraries help put everyone in society on more equal footing."
- Julia Guerrero Reed
​Reference Librarian
We love our library, and we know our patrons do too! For this reason, we've put together photo galleries of McAllen Public Library to view at any time from home.
Click on the image below to access our MPL Virtual Tour!
Happy National Library Week from your MPL Teen Staff! Our library doors may not be open, but we're still here to connect with you! Tune in for our 3PM virtual programs on FB/ YouTube on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Sundays.
