COUNTYWIDE : Don’t Be Quiet About Your Library

For some people, the library is the first stop when looking for a new job. For others, it’s where to go when researching term papers or book reports. For still others, it’s simply a quiet oasis of words in a noisy world.

Now, county librarians are asking patrons to submit essays explaining in 100 words or less how libraries have made a difference in their lives.

Librarians throughout the nation are requesting the essays as part of a national campaign to highlight the role libraries play in the community.

“We feel libraries are just as important as the fire and police departments,” said Helen Lotos of the Orange County Public Library system. “They certainly offer people a lot.”

Organizers hope that the kind words of patrons will help prevent cuts in library funding. Some of the essays will be used as testimonials when library officials deal with legislators.

Essays can be submitted at all 27 Orange County Public Library branches until May 18. Judges include ABC News reporter Hugh Downs, Kansas City Chiefs football linebacker Derrick Thomas and Academy Award-winning screenwriter Michael Blake.

Three winning essays will be selected, and the authors will receive a free trip to New Orleans in June to attend the American Library Assn. convention.