Libraries = Strong Communities

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National Library Week is an annual celebration highlighting the valuable role libraries, librarians, and library workers play in transforming lives and strengthening our communities.

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In the mid-1950s, research showed that Americans were spending less on books and more on radios, televisions and musical instruments. Concerned that Americans were reading less, the ALA and the American Book Publishers formed a nonprofit citizens organization called the National Book Committee in 1954. The committee's goals were ambitious.  They ranged from "encouraging people to read in their increasing leisure time" to "improving incomes and health" and "developing strong and happy family life." 

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In 1957, the committee developed a plan for National Library Week based on the idea that once people were motivated to read, they would support and use libraries. With the cooperation of ALA and with help from the Advertising Council, the first National Library Week was observed in 1958 with the theme "Wake Up and Read!"  The 2018 celebration marked the 60th anniversary of the first event.

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Read more about the 60-year history of National Library Week at American Libraries magazine, and check out the list of past National Library Week themes.

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Celebrations during National Library Week include:

• Monday, April 20: State of America's Libraries Report released, including Top Ten Frequently Challenged Books of 2019.

• Tuesday, April 21: National Library Workers Day, a day for library staff, users, administrators and Friends groups to recognize the valuable contributions made by all library workers.

• Wednesday, April 22: National Bookmobile Day, a day to recognize the contributions of our nation's bookmobiles and the dedicated professionals who make quality bookmobile outreach possible in their communities.

• Thursday, April 23: Take Action for Libraries Day, a day to rally advocates to support libraries.

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http://www.ala.org/conferencesevents/national-library-week-tools