Celebrating National Library Week and My Ten Favorite Library Services

I spent many happy childhood hours at Brookside library checking out as many books as I could fit in my bicycle basket. I would spend at least an hour in the peaceful, air-conditioned space with one of my favorite smells-books! I’m happy that I passed that love on to my children and grandchildren. Our family loves libraries, and we’re happy to celebrate National Library Week, which began Monday, April 7 and will end on Friday, April 12.

When you think of libraries, you think of books, but there is so much beyond the books! Tulsa is lucky to have a five-star library, the highest ranking available! Check out the website to see everything going on in Tulsa County libraries. I think you’ll be surprised! I can’t begin to give you a comprehensive list of everything happening at the library, but I’ll tell you about ten of my favorite programs.

1. Storytime

For five years, my grandkids and I were regular attendees at the Schusterman-Benson Library storytime with the fabulous librarian Joy Carr. It was a big part of my grandchildren’s childhood and was instrumental in developing their love of books. Check out your favorite library for its storytime schedule.

2. Yoga

Did you know there is yoga at Central Library on Tuesday nights? There is no charge, and it’s beginner-friendly. How cool is that?

3. Book Clubs

Whether you want to read historical fiction, cozy mysteries, or classic literature, there is a book club at the library for you!

4. Summer Reading Programs

Who doesn’t want to read books in return for great coupons and a fun medal? My grandkids participate every summer, and so do I! Yes, adults are also encouraged to participate! You’re never too young, you’re never too old!

5. Writing Contests

There is an annual writing contest for kids sponsored by the library and a contest for adults sponsored by Friends of the Tulsa City-County Library.

6. Friends of the Library Programs

The Friends of the Library also has Books Sandwiched In, which is monthly book reviews, and Travels with Tulsans, which, as the name suggests, features Tulsans discussing their travel adventures.

7. Play Areas

Every library has a play area for kids. It makes my heart happy when my seven-year-old grandson begs to go to Central Library, or, as he says, “the big one downtown!” Yes, I know his motivation is the play area, but that’s fine. We sneak in some book time, too!

8. Adult Literacy Services

This critical mission employs volunteers to teach adults to read and to assist with learning the English Language.

9. Bookmobile

Just typing the word “bookmobile” floods me with memories. I can vividly remember stepping into the cool bookmobile and being in awe of the choices. The bookmobile visits 40 sites per month and also attends special events. National Bookmobile Day is Friday, April 12.

10. Homework Help

This is an important service ranging from simple homework assistance, tutoring, and even helping with those complicated FAFSA applications!

The library offers a multitude of activities and services. Checking out books is free; your local librarian can help you get a library card. Libraries are an essential part of our community. They provide a “third space,” a place that is not home or work. A “third space” fosters social engagement and a feeling of community unity. Libraries are a wonderful place for many reasons, and National Library Week is the perfect time to visit your library and discover what they offer!