National Library Week, April 7-13, 2024

About National Library Week

National Library Week is an annual celebration highlighting the valuable role libraries, librarians, and library workers play in transforming lives and strengthening our communities.

In the mid-1950s, research showed that Americans were spending less on books and more on radios, televisions and musical instruments. Concerned that Americans were reading less, the ALA and the American Book Publishers formed a nonprofit citizens organization called the National Book Committee in 1954. The committee's goals were ambitious.  They ranged from "encouraging people to read in their increasing leisure time" to "improving incomes and health" and "developing strong and happy family life." 

In 1957, the committee developed a plan for National Library Week based on the idea that once people were motivated to read, they would support and use libraries. With the cooperation of ALA and with help from the Advertising Council, the first National Library Week was observed in 1958 with the theme "Wake Up and Read!"  The 2023 celebration marks the 65th anniversary of the first event.

Read more about the history of National Library Week at American Libraries magazine, and check out the list of past National Library Week themes.

National Library Week is made possible by:

   
Thank you to ALA Library Champions for supporting ALA’s efforts in raising public awareness for libraries and librarians.

Information taken from National Library Week, ALA.

The theme for National Library Week 2024 is Ready, Set, Library!

Sunday, 7 April - National Library Week starts

Monday, 8 April - Right to Read Day

Tuesday, 9 April - National Library Workers Day

Wednesday, 10 April - National Library Outreach Day

Thursday, 11 April - Take Action for Libraries Day

Take the Community College Week Quiz to have your name entered in a random drawing for a $10 gift card. One winner per campus.

Your Campus Librarians: