Reflecting on Yuma's library boom
The Yuma County Library District will join libraries across the nation to celebrate National Library Week April 11-17.
It is a time to celebrate the contributions of our nation’s libraries and librarians, and to promote library use and support.
The Yuma County Board of Supervisors officially recognized the library on Monday when they read the National Library Week proclamation. Mayor Al Krieger will also read the proclamation on April 12 and host special story time for kids in the Children’s Area at the Main Library. Light refreshments will be served courtesy of the Friends of Yuma County Libraries, Inc.
A lot has changed since Yuma voters passed the $53.7 million library bond in 2005! In the past four years, new libraries were built in Yuma, the Foothills, Wellton and San Luis. The former Main Library was renovated and is now the Heritage Library, the Somerton Library was expanded to over twice its original size, and technology in the Dateland and Roll libraries was updated. After a whirlwind of groundbreakings, moves and opening ceremonies, the grand opening of the San Luis Library in August 2009 brought the expansion project to a close.
If you haven’t visited your library in awhile, you’re in for a treat. Book, CD and DVD collections have increased. Story-time now includes “Baby-time” with a focus on early literacy. We are finally able to offer programs, collections and a separate space to the teens of Yuma County. We have computer classes for those just learning the basics, and if you’re already savvy, bring in your laptop and take advantage of the free wireless Internet. Each library has its own clubs with varied interests that meet regularly. If you’re already part of a club or group, consider meeting in one of the conference rooms. There is truly something for everyone.
Want to learn more about the library? We are glad to present general information about the library and its services to community organizations and service clubs. We also offer library tours. See everything from Booker Bear’s Cave to where books are processed, including our automated check-in system and book sorter! For more information or to schedule tours and presentations, please call 782-1871.
National Library Week events:
• Monday, April 12: Proclamation and story-time with Mayor Krieger, 1:30 p.m. , Children’s Area, Yuma Main Library, 2951 S. 21st Drive.
• Tuesday, March 13: National Library Workers Day
• Wednesday, March 14: Historical Re-enactment with John R. Larking and C.L. “Lee” Anderson at 9:30 a.m., Yuma Main Library, Conference Room 160, and 1:30 p.m., San Luis Library; ongoing all day - Peeps in Literature Contest, Main Library, 2951 S. 21st Drive
• Saturday, April 17: Teddy Bear Picnic, 10 a.m.-non, Main Library, 2951 S. 21st Drive.
These are just a few of the many programs and activities happening at Yuma County libraries! See what’s happening at your local library at www.yumalibrary.org under Favorites/Calendar of Events.
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Sarah Wisdom is the Yuma County Library District's community relations manager.
