National Library Week
National Library Week is April 23-29, 2023. In celebration and recognition of National Library Week, Texarkana Public Library's Interim Library Director Laquita Dedmon reflected upon the importance of libraries in the community and the job's joys and challenges.
Libraries today are not that of the old. We have been redefined and are earning a new place in the learning environment. Though Kindles, tablets, and, more often, our phones have become the avenue through which many people read, the library is still a resource. DIY projects via TikTok and other social media apps have taken over the world, but we are still the gift that keeps giving.
As a librarian, it is my job to connect people with the knowledge, experience, and education they need to expand their understanding of the world around us, whether through books or the internet.
The biggest challenge libraries face today is “the right to read.” Measures are being taken in America to “censor” libraries and prevent people from reading certain materials through a library. The library has always been a safe space, and it should continue to be so. We know everyone can’t afford to buy that book they’ve been waiting for or their child wants to read. However, we will take that challenge head-on because we are here to provide a service.
Things we enjoy about our job at the Texarkana Public Library...
- Helping people and making connections.
- Being a community resource.
- Reading to children.
- The diversity of patronage.
- Recommending books.
- Providing free services.
Things we would like Texarkana to know about the Texarkana Public Library...
- We serve both sides of the city of Texarkana.
- We have wifi.
- We have “new” books and movies.
- We have downloadable audiobooks and ebooks.
- We have wifi hotspots available for checkout.
- We have a Makerspace with a 3D printer, a button maker, and a Cricut machine.
The Texarkana Public Library is eager to serve the Texarkana community. Library cards are free to those living in Texarkana city limits.
FOR MORE INFORMATION...
The Texarkana Public Library
600 W. 3rd Street
Texarkana, TX 75501
HOURS
Monday—Wednesday 9 AM-7 PM
Thursday—Friday 9 AM-5 PM
Saturday—10 AM-2 PM
Sunday—Closed
