Christine Horner, copy editor

National Library Week is meant to highlight the benefits that libraries all across the United States provide us. The American Library Association’s website describes this week as “an annual celebration highlighting the valuable role libraries and library professionals play in transforming lives and strengthening our communities.” This year’s library week took place from April 6–12, and although it may technically be over, libraries all across the country still continue to serve anyone who wants to take advantage of their wonderful free resources. Augsburg’s own Lindell Library is home to many of these resources as well as amazing librarians who shared their thoughts about the importance of libraries in interviews with the Echo.

This year’s theme for National Library Week was Drawn to the Library. Instruction and Outreach Librarian Tanya Gunkel answered, “I was drawn to Augsburg by the mission of educating students to be informed citizens, critical thinkers, and responsible leaders. I was drawn to Lindell Library specifically by the library staff. Throughout the interview process, the library team was warm, positive, and it was clear that it was a team excited for new possibilities. While creativity might not be a characteristic people think of when it comes to librarians, for me, if I can’t be creative and try new things, develop unexpected partnerships, the position is not right for me. I want to be part of a team that is rethinking what’s possible and I have found that at Lindell Library.” 

Not only are librarians warm and welcoming, they’re also an excellent resource for Augsburg students. Electronic Resources & Metadata Librarian Sara Fillbrandt said, “We aren’t just about research and book recommendations (though we’re really good at those!), we love to talk about movies, games, current events, (some) sports, gardening, and other hobbies. We are a fun group in Lindell, stop by and ask us about our band sometime!”

Sticking to the theme, the Echo also asked these librarians about what they think draws people to public libraries. Instruction and Outreach Librarian Megan Schierenbeck said, “Public libraries are a great space for folks to visit where they can just be themselves. There is no cost to enter a public library, no purchase needed to stay there, and public library staff are welcoming and helpful without being intrusive.” Free resources definitely seem key to drawing people to libraries. When asked about some of their favorite library resources, Instruction and Outreach Librarian Kira Cronin-Hennessey responded, “One of my favorite library resources is Interlibrary Loan, a service that lets us check out books & articles from libraries across the country. I’ve used it for academic research and also for fun books — you can get nearly anything!”

It’s clear that libraries are more than just books. No matter when you go to the Lindell Library, you’ll encounter knowledgeable and helpful librarians who are eager to provide you with whatever resources they can!