Behind the Books: Celebrating National Librarian Day

Every year, National Librarian Day gives us the opportunity to recognize and appreciate the dedicated professionals who keep our libraries running. Public librarians, in particular, are at the forefront of community engagement, ensuring that libraries remain welcoming and vital spaces for all. But librarians in academic institutions, medical research centers, and special collections also play a crucial role in shaping our world!

Gone are the days when librarians were simply the keepers of books. Today, they are navigators of the digital world, information literacy educators, and champions of intellectual freedom. Public librarians, especially, provide essential services that support their communities in profound ways:

• Bridging the Digital Divide: Many people depend on public libraries for access to computers, the internet, and digital resources. Public librarians provide digital literacy instruction, assisting guests with navigating various tools, including Microsoft Office programs.
• Shaping Collections to Meet Community Needs: Librarians play a key role in curating collections that reflect the interests, informational needs, and learning goals of their communities. They assess guest suggestions, local trends, and emerging topics to build well-rounded collections across various formats—books, digital resources, audiovisual materials, and more—that serve the evolving needs of library users and promote lifelong learning.
• Community Engagement & Programming: Storytimes, book clubs, career workshops, and cultural events are just a few ways public librarians bring people together and create lifelong learning opportunities. They design innovative programming to meet the needs of diverse populations, from early literacy initiatives to senior services.

Think back to a time when a librarian helped you—whether it was finding the perfect book, putting, or simply providing a welcoming space. Public librarians, in particular, are often the first point of contact for many seeking information, resources, or even just a quiet place to read. They spark curiosity in young readers, support job seekers, and offer programs that enrich their communities.

Let’s take this day to celebrate the incredible work of librarians and their colleagues everywhere! If you have a favorite librarian or library story, feel free to share it with us!