At the library: Popularity of libraries surging across country

The popularity of public libraries is surging according to the American Library Association's State of America's Libraries 2020. According to a 2019 Gallup Poll, visiting the library is the 'most common cultural activity Americans engage in by far (www.ala.org).” Public libraries offer free access to collections and programs that bring families together.

Public libraries offer free, enriching programs for kids despite income level. Communities that support their public libraries close the literacy gap that may happen in the early years of development where low-income families may not have the same opportunities for literacy growth (phonemic and phonological awareness).

Public libraries bridge both the digital and print divides in providing free access to Wi-Fi, comprehensive collections of print and digital books, and programs for all ages. For young children, the public library promotes parent/child bonding learning side-by-side in areas such as our interactive playroom or our new Baby Garden.

Having a place to go with children helps parents avoid social isolation and it's potential for depression. We realize this has been particularly difficult during this pandemic when our library has been locked. For older children, Iowa Libraries offer 1:1 tutor assistance through databases such as Brainfuse.

With a newly remodeled teen area and our second floor quiet study area, we offer an afterschool place where teens can get together to study or just be together and decompress after a long day of learning.

The decisions of locking the door and providing services virtually and curbside have been difficult to make the past few months with the pandemic spiraling out of control. We hear daily the struggles people are having being alone, missing being inside the library, and all of the people we serve daily (an average of 200 per day normally come through our doors pre-pandemic).

The positive from the approach we have taken is that we have not had to shut down services at all since the pandemic began. We have just shifted the way we serve people. As we head into February, we will be opening more express browsing and computer appointment times.

We will still be locked to allow for social distancing in the library. Please check our Facebook and webpage (www.washington.lib.ia.us) for updated reopening statements. Please call us if you have any questions or need any of our services at 653-2726.