Libraries Remember Day is celebrated annually on September 11 to acknowledge the role of public libraries in social welfare. A public library is a place of learning where anyone can become a member by paying a small fee. Libraries allow us to access information online, read and discover books, take notes, and form communities that are centered around learning and knowing. Libraries are a storehouse of knowledge and they support equal learning opportunities for everyone despite their age or background. Libraries also play a crucial role in cultivating the habit of reading and seeking answers to what we don’t know.
History of Libraries Remember Day
After the ghastly attacks on the Twin Towers on September 9, 2001, there were talks on its tenth anniversary regarding how to remember the victims and honor their memory. It seemed obvious that the most fitting memorial would be to build a public library on the site of what was the World Trade Center. Libraries represent knowledge and equal access to that knowledge. They also stand for freedom of expression, a celebration of diversity, preservation of heritage, and hope for the future. A library represents everything that stands firmly against terrorism, hatred, bigotry, and fanaticism. Thus, it was decided that on September 11, America will celebrate its public libraries.Libraries have been a part of our social structure since the earliest times. The first library dates back to 2600 BC. Since then every important civilization has kept a track of its history in archives, which were kept in the libraries. The libraries of powerful emperors and rulers have given us some of the most celebrated works of literature.Libraries Remember Day is celebrated by facilitating communication, fostering citizenship, promoting understanding, guaranteeing freedom of access to information, and welcoming everyone to the libraries as a symbol of freedom and fearlessness. In commemoration of the victims of the September 11, 2001 tragedy, Libraries Remember Day celebrates the role public libraries play in the preservation of a free society. Many public libraries across America remain open for the entire 24 hours on this day — the day starts at midnight and closes on the next midnight. Throughout the day, activities, remembrances, and performances take place at the libraries.
Libraries Remember Day timeline
The papermaking process starts in China.
Libraries with humanist literature inspire a number of scholarly works.
Europe sees a sudden increase in the number of libraries.
Chetham's Library in Manchester becomes fully and freely accessible to the public.
Libraries Remember Day FAQs
What do libraries do?
Libraries are community hubs. In addition to reading and borrowing books, they offer a safe haven for kids with games and book clubs.
What are the types of libraries?
There are usually three types of libraries- Academic libraries serve colleges and universities. Public libraries serve cities and towns of all types. School libraries serve students from Kindergarten to grade 12.
Who are library users?
The term may be used for patrons, clients, information users, information seekers, consumers, readers, etc.
How To Celebrate Libraries Remember Day
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Visit a library
Visit your college or community library on Libraries Remember Day. Spend an hour or two reading and browsing books. Check if your library is organizing any Libraries Remember Day events.
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Renew your library membership
This is the day to renew your library membership! Rediscover the joys of visiting a library and spending time among books.
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Surprise the local librarian
A library is nothing without an efficient librarian. Show your librarian that you care by writing them a thank you note or surprising them with a cup of coffee.
5 Facts About Books That Will Blow Your Mind
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Not all books have a paper cover
In the Harvard Library, there are three books suspected to be bound in human skin.
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The world’s oldest library still exists
The oldest continually operating library in the world was established in A.D. 565.
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Theodore Roosevelt was a speed reader
American President Theodore Roosevelt read at least one book per day.
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Indians love to read
An average Indian reads 10.7 hours every week.
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Teresa Calderon is the world’s fastest reader
She can read 80,000 words per minute with 100% comprehension.
Why We Love Libraries Remember Day
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Cultivates a love for reading
Reading is a productive way of spending time. It refines our creativity and makes us empathetic. Libraries play a huge role in sustaining our love for books.
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Symbolizes freedom
The day was born out of the ghastly terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. Libraries Remember Day reminds us that no hate can survive the power of love and knowledge.
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Fosters community
Libraries bring communities together. We visit libraries to meet like-minded people and make friends. The day also honors the central role that libraries have assumed in our daily lives.
Libraries Remember Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | September 11 | Monday |
| 2024 | September 11 | Wednesday |
| 2025 | September 11 | Thursday |
| 2026 | September 11 | Friday |
| 2027 | September 11 | Saturday |
