Lindsei Roby
MC301 Contributor
It’s April, which means spring is finally here! The sun is shining and birds are chirping as libraries across the country gear up for the annual celebration of National Library Week.
According to the American Library Association (ALA), National Library Week is the national observance and acknowledgement of library contributions used to raise awareness for library use and support.
Libraries all over the country celebrate by having daily events that include fundraisers, giveaways, talent showcases, and even community service projects to gain community support for the library, according to the ALA.
Implemented in the 1950’s, National Library Week serves as advocacy for reading, and a reminder to not forget about the many benefits the library has to offer.
According to Lakesha Smith, an administrative librarian at Hinds Community College, the library offers many beneficial resources and information to its patrons.
“Depending on what field of librarianship you’re in, our main goal is to provide accurate information and resources. This includes references, computers, printers, or things people don’t typically have in their homes,” said Smith.
With the various services it provides, Smith believes the library is truly an important part of the community.
“The library works to provide you with accurate information. You may have individuals with little to no access to resources, so it’s our job to provide whatever they need. The library is definitely the most diversified place you can go and feel like somebody,” said Smith.
As Smith has stated, people from all walks of life can definitely benefit from what the library can offer.
Anthony Moore, a criminal justice and political science instructor at Hinds Community College, believes in the importance of the library.
“As an instructor, being able to access information for my students and classes, as well as having individuals assist me with getting that information, is a major asset. So to me, the library is very important,” said Moore. 
This week of celebration is a reflection of how the library impacts the community with helpful and attainable resources, according to the ALA.
Jeremy Middleton, a freshman, general studies major from Canton, Miss., is a frequent library patron who appreciates the resources found in libraries.
“As a user of library resources, I know first hand the importance of the library as a whole. More specifically, the library’s desktops have incomparably blessed me when I have forgotten to do an assignment, or am being rushed to complete an assignment, while trying to stay ahead. Most importantly, a resourceful library is key, as it stores an abundance of information,” said Middleton.
Lasonya Walton, a sophomore, entrepreneurship major from Jackson, Miss., stated that the library can be a place to read, work, study, or work on projects and more.
“The number one spot to study and complete assignments would be the library. It has become very comfortable and resourceful throughout the years,” said Walton.
Visit the H.T. Sampson Library on the campus of Jackson State University to check out local events.
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