National Library Week celebrates role libraries play for campus, community

KOKOMO, Ind. - Libraries have something for everybody.

Indiana University Kokomo will celebrate the impact of libraries April 7 to April 10 as part of National Library Week, a national observance sponsored by the American Library Association.

Activities include a visit by local author and IU Kokomo alumna Janis Thornton, the Human Library, and more.

Yan He, dean of the Library, said the week shines a spotlight on the incredible role libraries, librarians, and library workers play in transforming lives and strengthening communities.

"This week is about recognizing the essential resources and services libraries provide, from fostering lifelong learning to offering a welcoming space for all," she said. "Celebrating National Library Week lets us acknowledge the dedication of library staff and the positive impact libraries have on individuals and society. It's a great time to reflect on how libraries enrich our lives and to advocate for their continued support and growth. The IU Kokomo Library offers great programming for this year's celebration, and we look forward to seeing you in the library celebrating this special week with us."

Activities include:

Monday, April 7:

• 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. - Doughnuts and lemonade, and button making with a banned book/literature theme
• 1 to 2 p.m. - IU Kokomo Library book club table

Tuesday, April 8:

• 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. - Doughnuts and lemonade, button making with a pop culture theme, and Kokomo-Howard County Public Library cards

Wednesday, April 9:

• 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. - Bestseller picks and Bookworms of IUK table
• 4:30 to 6 p.m. - Ink & Intrigue: Featuring author Janis Thornton, an IU Kokomo alumna. Thornton, who describes herself as a "Hoosier author of history, mystery, and crime," will read from one of her books, answer questions, and sign books. Refreshments will be available, and books will be available to purchase. This free event is open to the public in the Library Gathering Place, but RSVPs are requested at korsvp@iu.edu.
• Thursday, April 10:
• 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. - Kokomo-Howard County Public Library cards
• 4 to 6 p.m. - Human Library: Participants can check out "books," or real people who serve as open books, for a 30-minute conversation. Every human book represents a group in society that is often subjected to prejudice, stigmatization, or discrimination because of their lifestyle, diagnosis, disability, social status, ethnic origin, or other factors.

Education is KEY at Indiana University Kokomo.