ELLINWOOD —Did you know that more than 2 billion items are checked out of American libraries each year? Wow! There are also more than 16,500 libraries across the United States, more libraries than McDonalds! But most importantly, did you know that libraries offer essential services such as computer access, resources for job and business development, genealogical materials, and much, much more, all for free. All you need is a library card.
Your local library is a community center that can make a difference in your city, your family and your own life. Show your support for your local library next week as we celebrate National Library Week!
At the Ellinwood Community Library, we will be offering treats to show our appreciation for our patrons.  Wednesday is “Be a Smart Cookie, Visit Your Library!” (All day come and go reception for our patrons). Thursday is “Laugh It Up at the Library… It’s a Fun Place to Be (Laffy Taffy Day). Finally, Friday is “Libraries Are Out of This World! (Starburst Day).
Additionally, there will be trivia and guessing games throughout the week, one challenge per day. Patrons can try to answer the challenge, and may just win a prize.
Several fun displays will be on view for our patrons, including table top quotes, jokes and facts about libraries. Third grade students have also created t-shirt designs that celebrate libraries, reading and books and these will be on display. Patrons may also pick up book marks that have been designed by grade school students.
Finally, patrons are also invited to stop by the library and enjoy the Ellinwood Student Art Show. This fabulous exhibit features a variety of art media and techniques, including drawings, paintings, prints, scratchboards, and ceramics, all created by students enrolled in the Ellinwood High School art classes. This exhibit will be on display through the month of April.
First sponsored in 1958, National Library Week is a national observance sponsored by the American Library Association (ALA) and libraries across the country each April. It is a time to celebrate the contributions of our nation’s libraries and librarians and to promote library use and support. All types of libraries - school, public, academic and special - participate. This year, the national theme for the celebration is “Communities matter @ your library”.

Sharon Sturgis is the librarian at the Ellinwood School/Community Library.