Every April, the Aurora Public Library District and libraries across the country come together to celebrate National Library Week. It’s a time to recognize the vital role libraries play in strengthening communities, expanding access to information, and inspiring lifelong learning. It’s also a reminder that libraries are not just places to borrow books; they are joyful spaces where connection with the community thrives!
Whether it’s early literacy programs, career support, cultural events, or safe places to gather and grow, libraries continue to evolve alongside the communities they serve. “Libraries are a critical part of the social and civic network that makes for great communities,” said executive director, Michaela. “I welcome any opportunity to highlight that on a national level.”
The theme of this year’s National Library Week, Find Your Joy, is reflected every day in the work of APLD staff. “Working at APLD infuses my life with meaning and knowing that I am making a difference and contributing to a positive, peaceful, and loving community brings me joy,” said Eola Road Branch manager, Krista. That same sense of fulfillment resonates with Outreach Services manager, Jessica. She’s in a unique position to bring joy directly to people outside the library walls. “Each time I greet a new Bookmobile visitor and witness their fascination with the many offerings on our mobile library, I’m reminded how fortunate I am to share such joyful experiences with our community.” These personal stories from dedicated people reflect the heart behind our services.
That spirit of joy doesn’t stop with our staff—it extends to the community through opportunities to celebrate and give back. For National Library Week, the Aurora Public Library Foundation (APLF) is hosting a series of fundraising opportunities that invite you to support the APLD’s ongoing impact. “Currently we are funding 3 specific needs of the library: Rory’s Readers Adventure Kits, Light of Learning Scholarships, and Branch Enrichment Projects,” said Foundation manager, Jordan. “Contributing to the Foundation gives you the unique opportunity to help individuals throughout their entire life.”
One way to participate is through the Inluro Candle online fundraiser, available through April 25. This specialty candle, featuring three scent choices (Old Books, Moroccan Cashmere, and Citrus Grove), is available for $24, with a portion of each sale benefiting APLF. Dining out is another easy and delicious way to give back. Monday, April 20, Chili’s in West Aurora (1290 N. Orchard Rd.) will donate 15% of all sales when customers mention the Aurora Public Library and Wednesday, April 22, Little Pop’s Pizzeria (3015 E. New York St.) will contribute 20% of all sales with the same mention. The week wraps up with a special event at Yellow Bird Books (34 S. Stolp Ave.) Friday, April 24, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. The bookstore will donate 15% of all sales throughout the day, and guests can enjoy music and charcuterie boards during the evening celebration. Thank you so much to our business partners and donors for helping with these events!
As National Library Week reminds us, joy can be found in many places. You may find it on the pages of a book, in a shared experience of an event, or through the act of supporting your community and APLD can help you with all the above! More information about the Foundation’s National Library Week events can be found online at https://aplfoundationil.org.
Andrea Tiberi is the communications coordinator for the Aurora Public Library District.