April 7-13 is National Library Week.

So, I must admit, I can't remember the last time I "used" our library's resources. Lord knows, I like to read, but I am not a voracious reader. Perhaps it is because I read at least 75 percent of the copy in these newspaper pages each week as the editor. Reading news copy is still pleasurable after all these years, but give me a book of fiction (horror, mystery and science fiction are my favorites) and I could spend a whole day turning the pages – if I didn't have anything else to do.

But I do appreciate what libraries provide and I can't imagine any town being without one. I hope you feel the same.

In my formative years, I would use the library for research on school assignments and for my reading pleasure. I remember the week that that the official Baseball Encyclopedia arrived. I think Mrs. Gray, the librarian, had to send me home one night as she was turning out the lights.

After taking a quick look at what's currently going on at our libraries, here's what I found: various book groups or clubs, tech help, children's programs (story times, crafts, games and more), community events (Earth Day), author readings, art and photograph exhibits, group discussions, internet access, programs for adolescents and, of course, the arrival of lots of new books.

According to the American Library Association's website, this year’s National Library Week theme is Libraries = Strong Communities. Our area libraries – Boothbay Harbor, Southport and Wiscasset – have been around a long time and I do believe they are, like the ALA website says, "the heart of our cities, towns, schools and campuses, providing critical resources, programs and expertise. They also provide a public space where all community members, regardless of age, culture or income level, can come together to connect and learn."

Let's all keep that thought in mind whenever our libraries need some financial help.