Libraries provide a wealth of information and knowledge. Of course, in the age of the internet, which allows us to have everything at the touch of a button, some people deem libraries obsolete. However, libraries can provide other resources and experiences that the internet cannot. Let's talk about some of those and connect you to our local library in Berrien Springs and around you where you live!
My History with Libraries
When I was younger, the Hinsdale Public Library was my safe space. It provided a wonderful kids' room in the basement of the library. It had colorful toys and engaging books. I would spend hours on the floors and couches of the space, looking at books about animals, fairies, space and more. While libraries have evolved, I still feel that sense of a safe space where I can quietly read my books or do my homework.
The Hinsdale Public Library also had movie and game nights. I remember I first saw “Wall-E” there in the movie theatre room. It had science and art classes and day camps for kids in the community growing up. Believe it or not, many libraries still offer some community resources even today—they are just not talked about as much as they should be. My childhood library was also right next to a food bank and town hall, which allowed for collaborative events where we could give back and understand our broader community.
Berrien Springs Public Library
While small, the Berrien Springs Community Library has many resources and fun events. Did you know you can get a free library card from the Berrien Springs Library if you are an Andrews student? It's true! Of course, we have our own library on campus. However, the public library offers books besides just academic ones. Berrien Springs Library also has notable events: an after-school program for kids in grades 6-12, a Lego club open to all, various story times, an art camp and a fandom fest. Those all sound super fun! Libraries benefit the whole community. Their existence is not just for people who enjoy reading. The Berrien Springs Community Library has the word "community" in its title for a reason. It's a free place to (quietly) hang out, read for however long you want, and maybe join a club or two.
The Importance of Libraries
In a day and age where the importance of physical media is fading away, books offer us that opportunity to engage with knowledge that can't be taken away from us. As we have seen recently, whole websites can just disappear. But words in our hearts and minds can never be taken away. Libraries offer a safe space where we can relax and be ourselves while also gaining invaluable information about our community and the world around us.
One of my favorite librarians, Mychal Threets, has opened the eyes of the Internet and reminded me of what libraries continue to do for kids and adults alike. It helps them answer questions, feel they belong, and have a sense of being part of a community. Through talking about his own mental health challenges from a young age, he has shown how libraries provided him with a space where he could realize how to feel those emotions from a young age and gain support from a place where he could feel loved and safe.
This summer, after the academic stress of this semester has dwindled, I encourage you to go to your local library (wherever that may be) and get a library card. Get the events calendar and go to the programs they have. If you are someone like me looking for great community events, the library is a great place to go. Check out some books while you're there! Please support your local libraries so they can continue to be the great places they are for so many people.
The Student Movement is the official student newspaper of Andrews University. Opinions expressed in the Student Movement are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editors, Andrews University or the Seventh-day Adventist church.