Russell Library staff observe National Library Workers Day

MIDDLETOWN — In honor of National Library Workers Day Tuesday, the staff and administration of Russell Library gathered to talk about the increasing need for services they provide in the digital age.

“There is no better time than National Library Workers Day to salute the contributions of our dedicated employees who make this institution a vibrant and integral part of the Middletown community,” Library Interim Director and CEO Brandie Doyle said in a news release.

The second Tuesday of April every year is celebrated as National Library Workers Day, in recognition of the valuable contributions made by all library workers.

Catherine Ahern, president of the AFSCME Local 1303-085 bargaining unit that represents more than 30 Russell Library employees, echoed Doyle’s sentiments in a prepared statement.

“We are the central gathering place for our community. Anyone, regardless of social or economic status, can walk into their local public libraries and receive the services they need,” said Ahern, director of information services and adult learning at Russell Library.

A total of 77 percent of Americans 16 and older think libraries provide them with important services they need, such as access to books and technology, free Wi-Fi and quiet spaces, according to AFSCME.

Libraries remain one of the only public institutions in the United States that require no documentation or payment from users who enter the building or use online services, Doyle said.

Over the past five years, public libraries have seen the number of public programs offered per capita increase by 6.3 percent, while the amount of staff per capita has decreased by 1.5 percent, according to statistics presented last year by the Public Library Association.

Contributed photo The staff and administration of Russell Library in Middletown marked National Library Workers Day on Tuesday.