Madison Reporter

Madison Public Library is set to observe National Library Week from April 6-12, providing numerous activities for visitors under the theme "Drawn to the Library". This initiative highlights the diverse roles libraries play in the community, from family programs to senior tech assistance.

Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway expressed support for the libraries: "Our libraries play an important role in uniting the Madison community. Libraries help us share knowledge, resources, and opportunities." Celebrating libraries' contributions to community life, the event encourages public participation in activism for library funding.

Madison Public Library Director Tana Elias highlighted the significance of advocacy amid funding uncertainties: “The recent decision to put all 75 staff at IMLS on administrative leave for up to 90 days has essentially ensured that federal grant funding to libraries will be frozen, if not canceled entirely, during that time.” Participants can share personal stories about the importance of libraries, with postcards available at any library branch during National Library Week. These will be sent to Wisconsin's U.S. Senators and Congressional representatives.

Library activities for the week include sharing personal stories for advocacy, supporting the right to read, recognizing library workers, and participating in outreach and creative events. The community is invited to use online resources to calculate the value of library services they use and contact officials to support library funding.

National Library Week activities will be held in various library locations, including art and making events and tours by library staff through social media.