Libraries are a High-Impact Solution to a Lot of Covid-Era Problems

Libraries and museums across the nation have felt the impact of the pandemic. Doors have closed, new social distancing measures have been implemented, and these institutions have worked tirelessly to continue serving patrons while under stress from the virus. The Institute of Museums and Libraries (IMLS) stepped in with a new legislative mandate that made an additional $50,000,000 in grant funding available to help prepare for and respond to the virus. This funding was meant to help expand digital network access, purchase internet-accessible devices, and provide technical support services.

Discover a New Perspective at Your Local Library

Our interconnected world allows for rapid communications and business to transpire between every country, continent, and culture. However, much of this connection takes place online these days (especially in the age of COVID), making it difficult to directly engage with new people and experiences. Luckily, libraries continue to provide a wealth of cultural touchstones, allowing interested readers a chance to discover new cultures, ideas, and locations. Many of the problems we face as people come from a lack of understanding and cooperation, making it more critical than ever to be concerned with the range of perspectives that people go through.

How libraries can help women-owned businesses succeed

There are 1.1 million women-owned businesses in the U.S., according to the U.S. Census Bureau, and women cite a top motivator for starting their own business as making a difference in the world. Now that is inspiring! Running your own business is empowering. It offers flexibility, financial independence, and a chance to build a career of passion. Of course, following that call to freedom can come with its own challenges like finding a workspace, funding your business, reaching clients, and knowing what to do next.

The Book: A Fantastic Piece of Technology

When you think of the world technology, what comes to mind? Odds are big machines, like planes, trains and automobiles, and things with screens and plugs. However, if you look at the dictionary definition of the word, ‘the use of science in industry, engineering, ect., to invent useful things to solve problems,’ the idea of a ‘technology’ expands to include everyday items such as a pencil, a cloths hanger, a mailbox and, yes, a book. And, like all technology, the modern book involved several abandoned formats and went through recognizable stages to get to its current level of acceptance.

Tribal Libraries Focused on Preservation of Culture and Languages

Institute of Museum and Library Services The Institute of Museum and Library sciences is an independent federal agency that supports museums and libraries in the country through grants, policy development, and research. It was created in 1996 and has made it its mission to inspire libraries and museums to transform the lives of individuals and communities. With their work, the IMLS hopes to promote learning, build and strengthen the capacity of libraries and museums, and increase public access to resources. The IMLS strategically aligns its resources and relationships to aid libraries and museums. There are several grants being awarded every year that libraries and museums can apply for. These grants are expansive in what they cover and were created to accommodate different sizes and types of projects and institutions. A few of these include museum grants for African American history and culture, leadership grants for libraries, grants for small museums, and many others. A full list can be found on the IMLS website.

Libraries: Where Populations Become Communities

Many people discover the different types of library spaces when looking for a book or somewhere in their community to hold a meeting. This is one reason why libraries continue to thrive in the Internet era. Even when people can find a lot of information and entertainment online the library as a place is still a draw and provides internet access.

Develop a Mindfulness Practice With Support From Your Local Library

How libraries can help you feel happier, calmer, and more focused You may have heard the term mindfulness tossed around even if though you may not have known what this self-care practice involves. Perhaps you imagined a person sitting cross-legged and chanting Om with their eyes closed. While meditation is one of the most commonly practiced mindfulness techniques, plenty of others are worth trying, and you can learn about them all at your local library.

IMLS Grants Help Create and Sustain Better Libraries for Everyone

Libraries and museums rely heavily on funding from grants to help supplement their financial needs in hosting events, running programs, and completing special projects in their community. Luckily, there are organizations in place that are dedicated to helping these institutions do the work they need. The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) is one of many supporters of libraries and museums across the country. Thanks to their contributions, thousands of awards have been distributed.

The Teen Space Every Neighborhood Needs is at the Library

The fact that public libraries hold a wealth of information is something that most people know and appreciate. However, for teens who are being exposed to new ideas for the first time and trying to navigate complicated classes, awkward social lives, and changing bodies, the library becomes an even more valuable resource. Libraries are one of the best places for teens to learn, discover, and grow. Not only are they consistently developing more programs and obtaining materials that would be useful for them, they also have specific groups, events, and sections of the library that are catered specifically to this age group.

Best Library Stories of 2021 So Far

Libraries show there are still some amazing events happening in the world. From budget cuts to pandemic closings, there are a lot of negatives that can overshadow the work that is being done on a daily basis for communities across the country. Sometimes all we need is a break from social media feeds to dive into some feel-good stories. While the year is still months from over, let’s take time to touch on some of the successes that the library community has experienced so far.