Libraries: local resource, endless opportunities

By U.S. ArmyMay 4, 2018

National Library Week
Specialist Patricia Samples, president, U.S. Army Garrison Italy Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers, and Haley Campbell, library technician, hand out items to create bookmarks to six-year-old Brian Ehler (accompanied by his mother, Tatiana Sold... (Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

VICENZA, Italy -- The library on Caserma Ederle joined libraries nationwide in celebrating the many ways libraries lead their communities through the transformative services, programs and expertise they offer.

April 8-14 was National Library Week, an annual celebration of the life-changing work of libraries, librarians and library workers.

Libraries aren't just places to borrow books or study -- they're also creative and engaging community centers where people can collaborate using new technologies and develop skills and passions.

Libraries of all types have long been evolving to meet the needs of the communities they serve. Resources like e-books and technology classes, materials for English-language learners and programs for job seekers are just a few ways libraries and librarians are transforming to lead their communities.

Community members can also develop their own leadership skills at the library, with endless opportunity to build skills and confidence through resources and programming.

The Vicenza library helps lead the community through preschool story time, the teen space, monthly book club and collaboration projects with the art center -- to name a few.

"We look forward to National Library Week every year to thank our patrons for making us such an important part of the community. This year's theme is 'Libraries Lead,' and we hope we are leading the way towards creating a friendly, welcoming environment and a place where patrons know they will find answers," said Michelle Ortiz, supervisory librarian, U.S. Army Garrison Italy.

Ederle library celebrated National Library Week by sponsoring an open house each on Ederle and Caserma Del Din and offering the Altered Book Workshop, a mixed media art project.

First sponsored in 1958, National Library Week is a national observance sponsored by the American Library Association and libraries across the country each April.

Library hours on Ederle are Monday-Friday, 10:30 a.m.-7 p.m., and Saturday 10:30 a.m.-6 p.m.; on Del Din, Monday-Thursday, 10:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m., and noon-4 p.m. Sundays.

Related Links:

USAG Italy Facebook page

USAG Italy website