All my life, I have appreciated the vital role our libraries play in our communities. Not only are they a place to read and borrow books, but they are a place to learn and grow and are important to our sense of community.
That is why I was proud to support the libraries in my district with grants from my 2007 member item appropriation. Specifically, the grants will assist local libraries with their summer reading programs.
Part of the Ramapo Catskill Library System (RCLS) serving nearly three-quarters of a million residents, there are nearly twenty libraries in Orange County alone. In fact, the RCLS is one of twenty-three library systems supporting over 1,000 public libraries in our state. Our local libraries host hundreds of annual programs for children and adults, including this summer’s “Get a Clue” Summer Reading Program. I encourage you and your children to participate in the summer reading program. These programs are wonderful ways to encourage learning and reading as well as being entertaining, educational and enriching community activities.
Most of the libraries in our area pay special attention to children, although libraries are not just a place for kids. The Children’s Department in your local library offers an excellent collection of fiction and non-fiction books as well as DVDs, videos, and recorded books. Print books are also available in Spanish and other languages. The young and old alike can enjoy accessing the Internet at the local library, listening to a lecture, or learning a new craft.
I hope you will take advantage of the wonderful programming and collections at your local library. Although many libraries maintain weekly hours during the summer, there may be changes to their schedule. To find out your local library’s summer hours, for directions, event calendars or for more information, please visit RCLS’ official website at www.rcls.org or call (845) 343-1131.