The theme this year, Libraries=Strong Communities, is something Milner embraces every day.
The American Library Association first celebrated National Library Week in 1958 and has since continued the tradition to support all levels of libraries across the country. Throughout the week of April 8-12, Milner will host several activities to promote a stronger community on our campus.
“National Library Week gives us a chance to celebrate all that libraries do for their communities, and to thank librarians for the work they do all year long,” said Dean of Milner Shari Zeck. “It is always great to take a moment to pause and reflect on good things, such as our libraries. It also gives libraries the chance to get a bit of publicity for our services and our holdings!
“I think of Milner, and libraries in general, as great equalizers,” she continued. “You walk through the door of a library, and you can follow your curiosity, grand or obscure, without being judged or held back by a lack of funds or other resources.”
Relax at Milner during National Library Week!
To begin the festivities, Milner Library is sponsoring the ISU Women’s Softball game against University of Northern Iowa on Saturday, April 6, at noon. Join in the fun with game facts and entertainment.
On Monday, April 8, Milner is hosting a Kick-Off celebration from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. on Floor 2 of the library. Enjoy some treats and a photo booth with Ange Milner.
To embody this year’s National Library Week theme, Milner is also partnering with the School Street Food Pantry for a donation drive. Along with nonperishable food, the pantry is in need of:
- Gluten-free products
- Hygiene products (toothpaste, toothbrushes, shampoo, soaps, detergents, etc.)
- Feminine products
- Rice and grains
- Vegan/vegetarian proteins
- Canned meat
- Shelf stable milks (dairy, soy, almond, coconut)
Tuesday, April 9, is National Library Workers Day and followers can show their appreciation for Milner’s librarians on the social media pages.
On Tuesday, April 9, from noon-1 p.m., Scholarly Communication Librarian Anne Shelley will also host a workshop, Exploring Affordable Course Materials at Milner Library.
If you are concerned about the cost of textbooks, join Milner Library during National Library Week to explore alternatives to commercial textbooks. In this workshop, we will look at options like open educational resources (OERs) and library services that can help control textbook costs. We will also discuss the effects of textbook costs on students. Bring your lunch! Register online today.
On Wednesday, April 10, a whiteboard will be set up on Floor 2 to encourage students to tell the staff why they love the library and the opportunities it has offered them. On the other side of the board, they can also share what book has changed their life.
On Thursday, April 11, the third floor of the library will host the De-Stress Fest before the stress of finals approaches. From 5-8 p.m., students can work on puzzles, play board games, and color in a giant canvas courtesy of Illinois Art Station. Students are also encouraged to bring their own board games. Healthy snacks will be available.
Throughout the month of April, the sixth floor will house a display of books about librarians and the history of libraries. Explore stories of the first libraries of the world, wacky stories from the stacks, and even one about a cat that lived in an Iowa public library.
Follow Milner Library!
Additionally, Milner’s social media accounts will host a trivia contest. The questions will be posted every day of that week at 10 a.m. on a different account each day. Questions range from the history of Milner to locating certain books and items. Similar to #MilnerMonday, only the top three correct answers will be eligible for a prize. Participants should follow all three accounts to make sure they don’t miss each question.
Learn more about National Library week by visiting ALA’s website. For more information regarding Milner’s activities throughout the week, contact Colleen Rice (cglongo@ilstu.edu) or visit Library.IllinoisState.edu.
