The Russellville Public Library is joining libraries across the country in celebrating the many ways libraries build strong communities by providing critical resources, programs and expertise. April 7-13 is National Library Week, an annual celebration highlighting the valuable role libraries, librarians and library workers play in transforming lives and communities.

As explained by the American Library Association, which sponsors National Library Week, libraries are at the heart of their cities, towns, schools and campuses. They have public spaces where people of all backgrounds can come together and connect.

Library programs encourage community members to meet to discuss civic issues, work together using new technologies or learn alongside one another in free classes. Library staff also partner with other civic and service organizations to actively engage with the people they serve, always striving to make sure their community’s core needs are being met.

RPL helps lead the community by actively seeking out community partners, reaching out to individuals and the community as a whole on a regular basis and constantly evaluating its collections, programs and services to better serve its patrons.

“Libraries are safe places in the community, promoting the free exchange of information and ideas for all,” said library director Ashley Cummins. “They foster civic engagement by keeping people informed and aware of community events and issues.”

RPL is celebrating National Library Week by encouraging people to attend several programs, including a story and craft hour, free movie, game day and community puzzles. The library will also have a space available to offer anonymous suggestions, comments or concerns.

While staff members at the library will be celebrating locally, Cummins will be celebrating in Point Clear, where she will be receiving the library’s first Bronze Star Award for meeting standards of excellence in library service.

For more information about National Library Week, visit RPL at 110 E. Lawrence St., call 256-332-1535 or visit the library’s website at www.russellvillepubliclibrary.com. The library is open Tuesday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.