Dear Patrons:
If this past year has taught us anything, it's that we miss our patrons as much as our patrons miss the library. There is a special hum of background noise in a busy library - the chatter of patrons, the sound of children's voices, the ringing phone, the beeping of the scanners... it all creates a symphony of activity that was sorely missed during of the pandemic restrictions. As we gradually increased our services during 2021, we were greeted with eager patrons who wanted to get out of the house and visit the library. People still need a space to go where they are welcome and comfortable, and can find something to enhance or help their lives. We've been able to provide many of our wonderful patrons with circulating Chromebooks and Wi-Fi hotspots that they can take home, as well as books, crafts to go, printing, faxing, Zoom programs and YouTube videos. Patrons are coming more frequently to use the tables for studying, and children are coming in after school and on Saturdays. The Little Free Library we installed in 2020 has been a big hit providing countless free books to readers of all ages. Staff still spend a lot of time helping patrons over the phone. We are making more changes and anticipating the spring when we hope to really have things humming along! The most exciting thing to happen in 2021 is our new Youth Librarian, Ms. Annmarie. She is poised to bring fresh new programs via Zoom and in our story room. There is something for everyone at the library is true now more than ever! We help our community because we care, and now we appreciate your support to help us keep growing. In 2022 we anticipate adding back more staff so we can expand our hours and programs. It's a very exciting time for the library even though things have been so challenging. We appreciate your support right now. All donations made will go towards new books. Please give what you can, and tell us what services you'd like us to develop this year. Visit our page https://www.poconolibrary.org/make-a-gift if you are able to give this year. Thank you so much for your support!
Sincerely, Ann C. Shincovich, Library Director