October 18-24 is National Friends of Libraries week!
Access to books is critical for children. According to the Department of Education’s study Access to Reading Materials, “While less than 15 percent of students with between 0 and 10 books scored proficient in 2015, 50 percent of students with more than 100 books did. The data and research are clear – children who have access to print reading materials have better literacy outcomes.” Libraries are a wonderful way to access books, and a library can serve as hub for learning, security and support for a neighborhood.
Friends of Libraries week gives us the chance to support our local libraries, many of which have adapted to the pandemic in unique ways, and are now offering in-person borrowing or curbside pickup.
While some local libraries have had to temporarily close their physical spaces, you still access all library resources online, where they are providing the virtual services and digital content their communities need more than ever. You can access ebooks, movies, music, video games, virtual storytimes and activities, and so much more — all from the the comfort of your home.”
In Rhode Island, the Ocean State Libraries represent a network of public libraries from Woonsocket to Westerly. These libraries provide FREE access to books, safe spaces to work and play, classes and even outdoor space to use wireless internet. The Ocean State Libraries are still working hard to ensure that Rhode Island residents still have access to books, with some libraries even doing curbside pickup! Check out the resources below to see how you can still engage with and learn from your local library branch:
Consult this map to find the library nearest to you.
View a schedule of online courses and offerings.
View the database of online courses and videos, curate by OSLRI.
Visit the ezone to borrow from thousands of audiobooks.
You can even sign up for a library card online!
The Ocean State Libraries network is offering you plenty of reasons to celebrate National Library Week from the safety of your own home, or in a branch adapted to keep patrons safe.
Remember, libraries are working hard to share resources, even now. Share a message of gratitude by tagging #ThankYouLibraries on social media when you use any of the resources listed above!