April 3-9 is National Library Week, a time to highlight the essential role libraries, librarians and library workers play in transforming lives and strengthening communities. The theme for this year’s National Library Week is “Connect with Your Library,” which demonstrates how libraries are places to get connected to technology, programs, ideas, books, media and much more. Most importantly, libraries also connect communities.

The Minot Public Library (MPL) encourages all Minot community members to visit their library in person or online to discover services and programs. MPL offers a wide array of programs, classes, and resources that are available in person or from the comfort of home. This includes N.D. State Park Passes, gardening tools, craft programs for all ages, eBooks, online language classes and more.

By expanding resources and embracing inclusion in their programming, resources and collections, libraries of all types continue to go above and beyond to keep their communities connected. MPL, like libraries across the country, is improving people’s lives by providing electronic learning resources for homework help, Wi-Fi access for students and workers who may lack internet access at home, and homebound delivery, among other services. MPL supports the community with services such as Universal Class (which has access to over 500 online courses) as well as the ability to check out Chromebooks, Wi-Fi hotspots and graphing calculators.

During National Library Week, MPL is specifically celebrating its staff and patrons.

“It’s been a difficult couple of years,” said Library Director Janet Anderson. “We are using this week to make sure people know all that their local library has to offer, but also to have fun.”

Anderson said they will be giving away gifts, hosting contests, sharing stories, playing games, attending a Grandparent’s Tea and solving murders. She also said that staff are planning a Spirit Week with different dress-up days and she encourages visitors to dress up to win prizes.

“People shouldn’t be surprised if they come in this week and see our staff in pajamas or prom dresses, instead they should join us!” she said.

Anderson also added that the Hidden Treasures Book Sale room will be open at 9 a.m. Monday through Friday and visitors will find some great items to take home. No prices are set for any of the items, but a donation box will be available.

This National Library Week, you can show your appreciation and support for libraries by visiting MPL in person or online and following the library on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. For more information, call 852-1045, visit the library’s website at www.minotlibrary.org or follow it on social media.