Oniska Blevins | The Selma Times-Journal

Libraries across the United States are hosting events in observance of National Library Week throughout April 8-14.

The theme this year is “Libraries Lead,” and Selma-Dallas County Public Library director Becky Nichols said the local library, as well as libraries across the world, lead in many ways.

“Libraries are a part of every single thing, so the theme libraries lead doesn’t imply that we’re the leader,” she said. “It implies that we’re a part of the story of leadership. We’re all working for the greater good.”

In observance of National Library Week the Selma –Dallas County Public Library is doing “fine free” all week.

Throughout April 8-14 the library is waving all fines if books and materials have been returned. The only request is a donation of any amount to the Sensational Summer Program, which last year over 4,000 children attended over the summer months.

Their event Lunch at the Library on April 11 at noon will feature author, Patti Callahan Henry.  The library is also doing its Kindergarten Campaign, where every five-year-old gets a library card. This is available for Selma City School students as well as county students.

Nichols said libraries lead in technology, education, and programming and National Library Week is a way to shine light on all the work libraries do.

“Our leadership in technology right now is significant in our community and I want people to realize that these resources are here,” she said.

She said the library’s computer lab is often used for online education, because it is the only access a lot of residents have to the internet. The library also collaborates with Wallace Community College Selma to offer GED programs Monday through Thursday. Library cardholders are also able to print, scan, send and receive important documents in the library as well.

“These are quality of life, changing of life activities,” she said.

Nichols said she wants the community to see the positive work the library, as well as other organizations, are doing.

“I think it’s important for all of us to recognize the importance of the organizations that are doing good work in our town,” she said.