What brings you joy? Whether it’s cozying up with a new story, learning a new skill, gathering with community or something else, you can find your joy at the Parkland Community Library.

National Library Week, April 19-25, is a time to celebrate the many ways libraries bring people together, spark imagination, and support lifelong learning.

From books and digital resources to tech assistance and creative programming, libraries are essential to thriving communities.

At Parkland Community Library, we invite everyone to join the celebration!

Whether you’re a longtime patron, a new neighbor, or haven’t visited in a while, now is the perfect time to explore all the library has to offer.

Our library provides unique programs, services, and events for all ages, as well as free Wi-Fi, e-books and e-audiobooks, streaming movies, hotspots, laptops, Seed Library, Memory kits, Launchpads, board games, Jigsaw puzzles, Library of Things, Museum Passes, and STEAM kits, ensuring that everyone has access to resources that educate, inspire, and connect.

Whatever brings you joy, the library has something for everyone.

Whether you’re preparing for a career change, launching a business, raising a family or embracing retirement, Parkland Community Library is here to support your journey.

Libraries serve as hubs for learning, creativity and connection, helping people of all ages explore new ideas and opportunities.

Join us for special National Library Week events:

• For teens: 6-8 p.m. April 21: Bedazzle your very own book! Celebrate National Library Week by bedazzling the paperback covers of banned books. All materials will be provided.

• For children and their caregivers: 5:30-6:30 p.m. April 22: A High-Spirited Play by Kit’s Interactive Theatre. Get cast right into the show as a dancing fairy, fearless frog or happy hermit crab and help Mother Nature whimsically teach respect for northeast ecosystems.

The performance combines ecology, dance, music, imagination and improvisation with a rich mix of humor.

Kids and adults are cast right into the show. Great for ages 4 and up. Sponsored by a generous donation from Karen and Alex Tamerler.

• For adults and teens: 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. April 25: Celebrate all things paper at Paper Fest, a creative, hands-on program.

Explore open-ended stations that invite you to cut, layer, play and trade: design paper collage art cards using a variety of textures and imagery, create and swap Artist Trading Cards with fellow participants, set goals and intentions by creating a vision board and experiment with blackout poetry by transforming printed text into something entirely new. Drop-in, no experience needed, all materials will be provided.

First celebrated in 1958, National Library Week is a national observance sponsored by the American Library Association and libraries of all types across the country each April.

For more information about National Library Week events at Parkland Community Library, visit www.parklandlibrary.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

Maryellen Kanarr is the executive director of the Parkland Community Library, South Whitehall.