While the modern day concept of a library has undergone several evolutions in the last couple of decades alone, the core concept of libraries as a place of knowledge and learning has existed in societies around the world for a very long time.  In the U.S., a country just under two and a half centuries old, we don’t have any ancient libraries, but we do have some impressive milestones of our own, nonetheless. [Read more…]

In 2008, Cedar Rapids experienced flooding that far and away exceeded the weather predictions residents had been given.  Experts predicted that the city would receive as much as two feet of flooding in certain areas.  Unfortunately for the National Czech and Slovak Museum & Library, they ended up with eight feet.  In an effort to protect their assets, the library staff had removed all books, manuscripts, and other materials from the bottom three feet of library storage.  Obviously, it wasn’t enough, and the damage that ensued was devastating.  Over $11 million in damage was incurred, and, needless to say, the staff was absolutely devastated. [Read more…]

Libraries serve their communities in so many ways that it’s hard to actually appreciate all that they do.  These days, technology has meant that that assistance has expanded even further, and libraries fill an even more diverse set of needs than before.  Rarely, however, are libraries appreciated like they should be, and certain districts in Virginia are setting out to actively change that. [Read more…]