National Library Week will take place this year from April 19-25. Started in 1958, it has been observed nationally by the American Library Association and libraries across the country every April. It’s a wonderful time to celebrate the contributions of libraries and library staff and to promote library use and support. This celebration occurs in all types of libraries whether they are school, public, academic or special.

This year’s theme Find Your Place at the Library was chosen a while ago, before any of us could imagine the emergence of a global pandemic that would force most libraries to temporarily close our physical spaces. However, you can still find your place at the library. We are open for business online, providing virtual services as best as we can and digital content for our community. You can access ebooks, movies, virtual storytimes and activities from the comfort of your home. Find us at www.newulmlibrary.org or on our Facebook page: New Ulm Public Library-City of New Ulm.

A library has the power to transform the lives of its patrons and its community. The library is a gateway to finding the information and resources that can shape a person’s world, from online databases, e-materials, and programming to the comradery between parents or caregivers as their children engage in the library.

Over the years, I have watched patrons learn the web or Microsoft Word and visit the library to seek ways to brush up on their English skills. One or two patrons have exclaimed that they have not visited lately because they acquired the job they had applied for with help from staff at the library.

This year I’m appreciative of the many innovative ways libraries, librarians, and library workers are continuing to serve their communities during a time of crisis. I’m extremely thankful to work with an amazing library staff at the New Ulm Public Library who are so dedicated and get on board with some of my more outlandish ideas.

There are many ways you can celebrate National Library Week this year:

1. Visit the New Ulm Public Library online (and when we reopen in person!) and check out e-books and e-audiobooks through Overdrive. I utilize Overdrive through the Libby app which I prefer. See what they have… I’ve discovered e-cookbooks.

2. Follow us on social media and share #MyLibraryMyStory If you are so inclined, check out the American Library Association and I Love Libraries pages as well. Use the hashtag #NationalLibraryWeek

3. Check out the virtual programming that is available on our social media. Join your favorite author as they read their favorite stories – many publishers have been posting content on their Facebook pages.

4. Become a member of the Friends of the New Ulm Public Library to show your support. Visit www.newulmlibrary.org for more information.

5. Share your love of reading with family and friends.

As much as we all love the art of reading, libraries are more than reading. The New Ulm Public Library has a mission to share as a community a haven for learning, imagination, discovery. I challenge you to celebrate National Library Week by sharing a love of reading and community with your friends and family and a virtual visit (send us an email!) to your favorite New Ulm Public Library staff!

Thank you for your support of the New Ulm Public Library. The success of the New Ulm Public Library is due to this community. It is the great service provided by library staff and the support from each and every one of you, the City of New Ulm, the Library Board, the Friends of the New Ulm Public Library, our faithful volunteers, and the numerous organizations who partner with us to meet the needs of our loyal patrons!

Editor’s Note: The City of New Ulm presents a weekly column highlighting activities in different departments in the city government. Once a month the city will answer questions from readers. Questions on New Ulm city issues can be sent to comments@ci.new-ulm.mn.us.