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April 16 – National Librarian Day

Today, April 16, we celebrate National Librarian Day, a special day to appreciate the invaluable contributions librarians make to education and literacy. Across the country, librarians work tirelessly to manage libraries, curate collections, and guide patrons in their quest for knowledge and entertainment. It’s a day to recognize their hard work and the pivotal role they play in our communities. You can check out all of the Fact of the Day for Kids here.

FIVE FUN FACTS ABOUT LIBRARIANS

  • Librarians often need a master’s degree in Library Science (MLS) to work in most public, academic, or special libraries.
  • The oldest known library was founded in the 7th century B.C. in Nineveh, ancient Assyria, with many librarians throughout history also acting as archivists and record keepers.
  • Librarians don’t just deal with books; they also help people research information that may not be readily available, from historical archives to genealogy.
  • The American Library Association (ALA) was founded in 1876, and it’s the oldest and largest library association in the world.
  • Some famous librarians include poet Philip Larkin, Casanova, and Lewis Carroll, the author of “Alice in Wonderland.”

ACTIVITY IDEAS TO CELEBRATE LIBRARIANS

Today is the perfect day to show appreciation for librarians and explore the wonders of your local library. Here are some fun activities you can do to celebrate:

  • Create thank-you cards for your school librarian.
  • Host a “Meet Your Librarian” day at school where students can learn about what librarians do.
  • Organize a book drive to donate books to your school library.
  • Have a “Dress as Your Favorite Book Character” day to honor the spirit of reading.
  • Visit your local library for a tour or special storytelling session.
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QUESTIONS TO THINK ABOUT FOR APRIL 16

On National Librarian Day, it’s important to reflect on how librarians impact our learning and access to information. Consider these questions:

  • What are some ways librarians help people besides checking out books?
  • How has a librarian assisted you with school projects or finding information?
  • Why is it important for communities to have libraries?
  • How do you think libraries will change in the future?
  • What skills do you think are important for someone to be a good librarian?

WOULD YOU RATHER QUESTIONS ABOUT LIBRARIANS

Here are five questions to spark conversation. Would you rather…

  • Work in a big city library or a small town library?
  • Organize a library bookshelf or design a library event?
  • Read only digital books or only physical books in a library?
  • Have a library with endless books but no internet, or limited books with high-speed internet?
  • Spend an afternoon with a famous author or a famous librarian?

MORE FUN STUFF

Here are more fun ideas to help keep the kids entertained:

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