Hot Topics Blog

The Detroit Free Press writes about job seekers using the library's resources in their search.

Today was the inauguration of the 44th President of the United States of America, Barack Obama. His love of reading has been discussed in many places, including this recent article in The New York Times: From Books, New President Found Voice.

Go Nuts About Reading and Join the Winter Reading Program!

Through March 7th, adults and high school teens may register online (follow the link above) or at any branch and will receive a commemorative Winter Reading pen (while supplies last).

To complete the program, adults must read or listen to five books and high school teens must read or listen to three or more books. Participants completing the program will receive a Winter Reading mug (while supplies last).

Yet another story of increased patronage at libraries across the country during this economic downturn. The Wall Street Journal writes that Folks Are Flocking to the Library, a Cozy Place to Look for a Job.

On January 7th “The Diane Rehm Show�, which airs on WAMU radio and is syndicated on many NPR stations, focused on the increased use of public libraries during the economic downturn.

Guests included Carla Hayden, executive director, Enoch Pratt Free Library and past president of the American Library Association, Jim Rettig, President of the American Library Association, and Ginnie Cooper, Chief Librarian for the District of Columbia Public Library.

Show description: Libraries today have become multimedia centers, offering not only books but DVDs, e-books and Internet access. They can also be an especially important community resource during times of economic hardship. A look at the future of libraries in a slowing economy.

Find more information about the show and listen to the segment at WAMU's website.

Labels: ALA, economic downturn, HCPL, libraries

Americans are saving money, and keeping the looming recession at bay, by going to their local libraries to rent books, CD's, and DVD's. Katie Couric reports.

Labels: economic downturn, HCPL, libraries