NEWPORT--Schools, campuses, and communities across the country are celebrating National Library Week April 12-18. This week is a time to remind the public about the contributions libraries, librarians, and library workers make to their communities everyday.
Cocke County has four community libraries: Stokely Memorial, Cosby Community, Parrottsville Community, and Marie Ellison Memorial (Del Rio).
Stokely Memorial Library Director Meschelyn Barrett explained libraries offer more than just books. She pointed out libraries offer free resources to help people find jobs and learn new skills.
"We do have many people who have come in to do the most basic thing on the computer, but have no computer experience. They are sent from the unemployment office to apply online for claims," Barrett said.
She said the librarians try to assist those who are trying to sign up for unemployment benefits, but that is not always possible with only two people on staff. Two computer classes, taught by Betty Jones, are now offered each week at Stokely Memorial Library.
"We also help people fill out forms, create or improve rŽsumŽs, register for email accounts, and apply for copies of birth records," she added.
Barrett said they often see patrons frustrated because more employers, including retail establishments and restaurants, are requiring applicants to complete paperwork online.
Students use the computer lab for research and writing reports and term papers, while some people use the computers for their on-line classes. On an average day, 50 people use the computers at Stokely Memorial. The computer lab includes nine computers, which stay busy. People can often be seen waiting in line to use a computer, she pointed out.
The libraries also have large print books.
"Someone who didn't know we have large print books recently visited the library. She said she couldn't read anymore because the print was too small, but she was very pleased to learn we had large print books, which she was able to read," Barrett said.
She also noted several teachers use children's books from the community libraries to supplement classroom readers.
"Testing shows readers succeed more in their schoolwork," said Barrett. "Everyone, not only children, benefit from reading regularly. Reading keeps seniors' minds active."
Libraries also have magazines, DVDs, and CDs. Stokely Memorial Library also features an extensive genealogy collection.
Thanks to the support of Library Friends, each library hosts a summer reading program for children, and Stokely Memorial hosts a Teen Reading Program. Dr. John Chambers and Blue Ridge Veterinary are regular supporters of the summer reading program.
Library cards are free. To get a library card, patrons must have identification showing their current address. Children must be at least 7 years of age or must have finished first grade to get a card with parental permission.
First sponsored in 1958, National Library Week is a national observance, which is sponsored by the American Library Association (ALA) and libraries all across the country each April.
The local libraries will have giveaways during National Library Week. Each day, everyone who physically visits the library, may register to win a cookbook and other goodies.
"We will give away prizes each day," Barrett said. "To be entered in that day's drawing, you must actually visit the library."
There will also be a drawing where a patron who has visited a book sale during the last two months will be awarded a 30-second "shopping spree" through the book sale.
For more information about the libraries, or National Library Week, call any of the community libraries, or call Stokely Memorial Library at (423) 623-3832.