Why public libraries are important

Have you ever wondered what makes public libraries important to a community? Libraries offer a lot more services than just lending books. Libraries connect people, both to each other, and to services they need. Whether it is providing teens a safe place to study after school, connecting first-time moms to other moms, linking teachers to resources for their classrooms, or helping patrons to information to achieve their goals, libraries are a vital community hub. National Library Week is April 19-25. This annual celebration highlights the valuable role libraries and library professionals play in transforming lives and strengthening our communities. If you have ever wondered what the library has to offer you and your family, what a perfect time to stop by the library! This month is jammed packed with events for the whole family. Be sure to check out www.tiffinsenecalibrary.org/calendar to see what is going on this month. There is something for everyone and every age! This year, the Outreach and Extension Department is celebrating America 250, which is the 250th Anniversary of the United States and the Declaration of Independence. Each month in 2026, there will be a special themed senior program that celebrates Ohio and the contributions Ohio has made to the nation. April's theme is transportation. These monthly senior programs are presented at area senior living facilities, followed by a craft and snack. Another life-enrichment event the library sponsors in April is our Community Read program. Each year, the library encourages Seneca County residents to read a selected title, and come together for special events and discussions related to the theme of the book. This year's Community Read book is "The Astral Library" by New York Times best-selling author Kate Quinn. The library has copies of this book available for you to check out with your library card. The eBook and audiobook can be found on the Ohio Digital Library and Libby app. The author will be in Tiffin on Tuesday, April 28, at 6:30 p.m. at the Chandelier Community Event Center. The event is completely free, open to the community, and will be followed by a book signing. If you would like to own a personal copy of "The Astral Library," you may purchase one, either at the author event, or at the Pan Yan Bookstore leading up to it. One of the greatest services libraries provide our community is digital services. Libraries embody values like equality and insure that everyone, regardless of their economic background, has the chance to learn. Libraries have been bridging the digital divide in communities by providing free Wi-Fi, computers, and technology assistance. Your library card also allows you 24/7 access to eBooks, audiobooks, magazines, music, TV shows, and movies with the Libby app and the hoopla app. Visit www.tiffinsenecalibrary.org/downloads to get stared with our digital services or stop by the information desk to see what we have to offer. If you need help with computer basics, internet basics, e readers, library downloads or Microsoft programs, be sure to schedule a one-on-one tech time appointment with our technology trainer, Hayle Lucas. The Library also offers everyday services such as printing, faxing, access to our copy machines and scanner. For more information, please call 419-447-3751, visit us at www.tiffinsenecalibrary.org, or stop by our library! Beth Gottfried is the Extension and Outreach Manager for the Tiffin-Seneca Public Library.