Libraries offer equal access to information, learning
Growing up in a land where open access to information is a given, it is hard to imagine living without it. Sometimes our own world view obstructs our ability to understand the experiences of others. Such understanding could pave the way to experiencing more gratitude for the opportunities and liberties we enjoy.
Reading is one way to experience a world view different from our own. I recently read about Aryo Wicaksono, a pianist from Indonesia. As he worked toward fulfilling his dream of U.S. citizenship, he said this:
“The disparity between the haves and have-nots (in Indonesia) is huge. Here, you can work, use the public library. Everyone has an equal task.”
There are many in our local community who have achieved their dream of U.S citizenship with help from the library. Staff have helped patrons navigate library resources and practice tests in The Digital Library that help them prepare for their naturalization exam.
The library is top of mind for many people when it comes to citizenship. That is probably why many turn to the library for questions about voting.
“I've helped patrons in past years find their voting precinct and where to go to vote,” said one Sandpoint Library staff member.
This Tuesday, September 22, is National Voter Registration Day. The East Bonner County Library District is hosting a local event to encourage people to register to vote. Volunteers will be stationed at each of the four locations to answer questions and take registrations.
“We’ll have all the information you need and even take all the paperwork over to the county Elections Office for you,” said Mike Bauer, Adult Programs coordinator and organizer of this year’s event.
Voter Registration Day takes place from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Sandpoint and Clark Fork Libraries and Bonner County Elections Office. Sandpoint High School will also participate with limited hours: 8-8:45 a.m. and 1:10-2 p.m. More information is available at www.ebonnerlibrary.org in the Events calendar or you can contact Mike directly at 208-265-2665.
During this National Library Card Sign-up Month, make a point of using your library card (or getting one if you don’t yet have one) and take advantage of your opportunities for discovery, connection, and lifelong learning from the library.
UPDATES: All branches of the East Bonner County Library District are now open at their regular hours of operation. Some services are limited and some are even better. Visit www.ebonnerlibrary.org for details and the latest updates.
National Library Card Sign-up Month - Enter to win prizes by getting or renewing a card or referring us to a friend. Learn more from our friendly staff or read our post in The Library Blog on our website for details.
EVENTS:
Homework Center. Monday through Friday, 1-4 p.m. in the Community Room at the Sandpoint branch. Dedicated time, space, staff, and high-speed internet for students to do school work in a socially distanced environment. Info: kimber@ebonnerlibrary.org or (208)263-6930 ext. 1211.
Tue. 9/22 National Voter Registration Day. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Register to vote at the Sandpoint Library, Clark Fork Library, Sandpoint High School (*limited hours at this location) and the Bonner County Elections office. We'll have all the information you need and even take all the paperwork over to the County Elections office for you. Bring your Driver's License/ Idaho ID Card or last 4 digits of your Social Security number. Info: Mike Bauer, 208-265-2665 and/or visit nationalvoterregistrationday.org.
StoryWalk™ - At Dover City Park enjoy "Someday We Will" by Pam Webb, and "Dinosaur Roar!”" by Paul and Henrietta Stickland at McNearny Park in Ponderay. Titles are updated monthly and posted at facebook.com/BonnerStoryWalk.
Marcy Timblin is in charge of public relations, marketing & community development for the East Bonner County Library District. She can be reached at 208-263-6930, ext. 1204.
