Just as the Gutenburg press played an important role in spreading literacy starting in the late 1400s, libraries have played a huge role in expanding knowledge and literacy in our society.
Libraries are nothing new. Like many advancements in the world, the Romans did it a long time ago. However, public libraries started in the United States, specifically in 1833 in Peterborough, New Hampshire, and are now mainstays of most communities.
They've come to be known as the "great equalizer" for serving people regardless of their age, sex, race or education level. For everyone, they open the doors of knowledge. And knowledge is power.
So this week, which is National Library Week, we would like to invite our readers to visit their local library. Here in Jefferson City, it's the Missouri River Regional Library, 214 Adams St.
In addition to National Library Week, today is National Bookmobile Day. MRRL will celebrate the contributions the vehicle makes to area communities.
The celebration is an opportunity for bookmobile fans to show their appreciation of the vehicles by writing letters, thanking staff or voicing support to community leaders, according to the American Library Association's website.
"This year, we're having a pretty big celebration," local library marketing coordinator Natalie Newville said.
Various communities in Cole and Osage counties depend on regular visits from the Missouri River Regional Library Bookmobile for access to books, CDs and DVDs.
The bookmobile will be parked at the MRRL Park, 214 Adams St., from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. today. Library staff will read for story time at 10:30 a.m. and again at noon. Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft will read stories beginning at 1:15 p.m.
The event is ideal for children, and will feature games and a chance for kids to have pictures taken of them "driving" the bookmobile.
If you can't make the event, consider taking advantage of the library from the comfort of your own home. You might be surprised at all of the digital offerings the library has for people who have a smartphone or tablet and internet access.