Celebrate National Library Week at the Lake Oswego Public Library on Friday, April 13 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

This week the Lake Oswego Public Library joins the estimated 121,785 other libraries in the nation to celebrate National Library Week. Living in Lake Oswego, this is true cause to break out the party hats because our library is much more than a place that holds books. From the Lake Oswego Reads program to children’s storytime, the library is driven by what director Bill Baars describes as an “intellectually curious” clientele.

So in the next two weeks alone you can listen to Scott Sparling, author of Wire to Wire; attend a computer training session; catch Cha Cha the Clown’s Silly Circus Show; watch a Slavic folk dance ensemble performance; join in Musical Laptime with Colette Fallon; or get some college planning tips from a local college counselor all at your local library. With that kind of programming, it’s safe to say that that few would disagree with Baars’ description of the library as “a beloved center for the town.”

The library invites you to come by on Friday, April 13 between 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. to enjoy some refreshments and get your picture taken with your library card. Here are 10 reasons why you can be a proud card-carrying member:

1. The Lake Oswego Public Library has been named the number one library in Oregon for eight consecutive years by Hennen’s American Public Library Ratings.
2. Over 1,000 patrons visit the library each day.
3. The library checks out an average of 33.5 items per year for every man, woman and child who lives in Lake Oswego. (The national average is 7; the state average is 15).
4. Over 500 volunteers contribute their time and talents to support the library. That’s the equivalent of 6 ½ full time employees.
5. The library circulates 1.4 million items per year which Baars says is unheard of for a community our size.
6. The library holds 250,000 items in its collection. Baars claims it’s a selection that borders on research facility caliber thanks to our educated community looking for intellectual stimulation.
7. With the advent of the internet, research librarians actually spend more time helping patrons find information than before. With so many options, their guidance is crucial in narrowing a person’s search and directing him or her to legitimate sources.
8. Technology is not replacing the library. According to Baars, there are more library card holders in the country than ever before.
9. Oliver Twist is one of the volumes that has been in the library since it opened in 1930. Now, however, you can find it a variety of versions: large print, DVD, downloadable video, audiobook, ebook, hardback, paperback.
10. The American Library Association estimates that you can save $2,040 each year by utilizing all of the library’s services from book loans to internet access.

In honor of National Library Week, pass along your favorite book recommendation of the moment. I’d love to hear it. Mine is–Before I Go to Sleep by S. J. Watson (checked out from the Lake Oswego Public Library!) What’s yours?

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