Library offers plethora of services
Emerging from months of sheltering in place, it is probably safe to say that we are all a bit disoriented. The gradual lifting of restrictions keeps us constantly adapting. Adding to the perplexity, we are simultaneously wondering about the future. How will the pandemic impact us in the weeks, months, and years to come?
Financial experts predict hard times ahead. Corporations, small businesses, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations will likely all face budget cuts and other economic challenges. These entities and their leaders will need more resources at a time when resources are more scarce than ever.
Libraries exist to leverage resources. Savvy business and community leaders are aware of library services that can benefit their organizations. Consider four ways that library materials and services positively impact our local community’s bottom line during an economic crisis:
1. Workforce development — Open access to books, videos, classes, webinars, volunteer positions, and other experiences contribute to the pool of employable skills in a community.
2. Business resources — Research databases, technology, prototyping and marketing resources help sustain local businesses during an economic downturn.
3. Educational support — Physical and digital educational resources help parents and teachers provide seamless educational experiences to students, even when schools are closed.
4. An informed, literate, and inspired community — Open access to library materials, services, and experiences contribute toward a productive society and a vibrant community.
Not surprisingly, library usage spikes during economic scarcity. Since our library district is funded through tax dollars, there are no direct costs for most services. When the economy gets tight, that is when libraries are needed most.
With so many changes to our economy and way of life expected to occur in the months and years ahead, will the library be able to continue to provide services that are critical to our community? That depends on all of us.
As we gradually emerge into Phase 3 of the Idaho Rebounds plan, library services are still quite limited. One way to support the library while it is closed is to take full advantage of The Digital Library. We have added new digital services and stocked our databases with lots of fresh content. Even if your first love is physical materials, you can find some amazing eBooks, audiobooks, movies, TV shows, music, projects, research tools, and more in digital format. There are even tutorials to help you learn to use them for the first time.
Support the library now by advocating for it, using The Digital Library, and helping others to benefit from this critical community resource. By doing so, you ensure that the library will be here when you need it most.
EVENTS: Check our website Events Calendar for the full schedule of digital events for kids and teens at www.ebonnerlibrary.org.
StoryWalks are open! New titles have just been installed; at Dover City Park enjoy “Mousetronaut” by Mark Kelly and at McNearney Park in Ponderay, experience “Life on Mars” by Jon Agee.
Calling tutors and students: we are currently seeking volunteer tutors in a variety of subjects to tutor students over the summer. With schools closing early this year, students may face a slow start in the fall. Please consider volunteering to help a student succeed in school by calling Mike Bauer at 208-265-2665. Tutoring sessions will take place remotely for the time being.
Marcy Timblin is in charge of public relations, marketing & community development for the East Bonner County Library District. She can be reached at 208-208- 208-208-263-6930, ext. 1204.