A survey, released in 2004 by the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) showed a loss of 20 million literary readers in a 10-year span from 1982-2002. The study indicated less than half of all American adults now read any substantial literature, such as books or newspapers.
In light of these alarming, and certainly sad, statistics, it is refreshing and deserving to acknowledge the 75th anniversary celebration of Mt. Lebanon Public Library. What was once a vision - and an uphill struggle to open in 1932 - has become a viable and valuable community asset.
Peterborough, N.H. can boast the first publicly-funded library in the United States, opening in 1833. The western Pennsylvania area should also be proud of its literary benefactor, Andrew Carnegie, who used his millions of dollars to fund and build more than 1,700 libraries in the United States. We are privileged to still have libraries in many of our local communities.
Libraries have changed with the times. They are no longer stodgy and stuffy darkened buildings, where talking above a whisper is discouraged. Today, they are bustling centers of activity with a wide variety of available resources, from computer services and Internet access to an assortment of interesting classes. Libraries have become a place for socialization and not just isolation.
Perhaps the most encouraging of all the trends in libraries is the emphasis on the youth. Children's sections are starting to dominate with inviting programs and welcoming displays. It's a wonderful sound to enter a library and be greeted by young voices of laughter and interest flowing from the area specific to youth.
In March, two of our area libraries were honored by the Pennsylvania Library Association for their best practices programs for youth. Upper St. Clair was recognized in the medium library category for its ready-to-read program for babies, toddlers, preschoolers and kindergartners. Bethel Park, also in the medium library category, was acknowledged for its Rays of Hope program, in the category for at-risk or underserved children and families.
Libraries are more than just a place for books. Mt. Lebanon library and its patrons are honoring their 75th anniversary with a month-long celebration, culminating with a party at the end of November. As always, they're opening their doors to anyone and all who want to wish them well.
We encourage you to visit this wonderful community resource or take a peek inside your own local library. Find out how they've changed. More importantly, perhaps, find out what you're missing.