NATIONAL LIBRARY WORKERS DAY
Each year in April, National Library Workers Day recognizes the valuable contributions library staff make every day to their communities through their hard work and dedication. The observance takes place annually on the Tuesday of National Library Week.
Libraries do so much more than house the books we borrow nearly any time of the day or night. (Yes, any time, day or night. Online reservation is highly popular.) Today as always, library workers are masters of research. They find the obscure quote (or partial misquote as the case may be) helping you to annotate your research paper correctly. When you’re on a job search, they offer internet access and computers so you can polish up your résumé, too.
Libraries also archive local history. The names of pioneers and settlers are usually recorded in books and newspapers of the era. Many libraries across the country house those books, papers, and many other resources. 
Library workers champion our youth. They foster creativity and are a wealth of diverse opportunities for growth. Not only do they create projects and inspiration for our youth, but they also create them with enthusiasm! It can be quite infectious.
Despite all libraries and their employees provide to their communities, their budgets and salaries continue to shrink. This day brings awareness to this continuing trend. Libraries and their employees continuously utilize the latest technologies to make information, books, and resources more accessible. Their knowledge and ability bring valuable tools directly to communities that might otherwise go without. They also serve every age group, many organizations, and entire communities.
HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalLibraryWorkersDay
- Give a shout-out to a library worker you know.
- Discover all of the resources your library offers.
- Support your library and its staff.
- When budget time comes for your city or state, do your part to support your library.
- Visit your local library.
- Use #NationalLibraryWorkersDay to post on social media.
NATIONAL LIBRARY WORKERS DAY HISTORY
The American Library Association sponsors National Library Workers Day, and it was first celebrated in 2004. It was started as a way to raise support for better benefits and salaries at a time when they had been stagnant for years. The observance continues to promote increased benefits and wages for the services provided by library workers every day.
Library Workers FAQ
Q. What kinds of jobs do library workers do?
A. Depending on the size of a library, there are a variety of jobs to be done. Some library workers are assistants to the librarian while others manage the entire library. A library may also hire an archivist, technician or media specialist. Others may work specifically with youth, developing programs for the children’s area.
Q. Do libraries offer internships?
A. Yes. Many libraries offer internships to those interested in library sciences. It’s a terrific way to develop the tools to be a skilled librarian.
