LET'S CHECK OUT LIBRARIES DURING CELEBRATION WEEK

Libraries are much more than four walls filled with books. They are keepers of information that can open doors of opportunity. This, National Library Week, provides a good time to find out what treasures our local libraries have to offer.

"Solve What's Puzzling You" is Missouri's theme for the week. Libraries contain reams of practical information, such as home repairs, recipes, or financial advice. The information comes in a variety of forms from books and cassettes to videos and computer banks.

Libraries are portals to exotic places. They allow us to travel without ever leaving home.

Historic facts and figures find safe haven in our libraries. Those interested in genealogy trace their family trees. Extensive reference sections provide a glimpse to the past for students in search of a good term paper. But libraries aren't limited to the historic perspectives. Through periodicals, newspapers and computer programs, they keep patrons up to date on world and local happenings.

The reference departments of local libraries really can solve what's puzzling you. Each day, librarians answer questions that range from the commonplace to the unusual.

Another special aspect of libraries is that they serve all ages. Area facilities have special programs aimed at children, including story hours for the young pre-readers. In this way, parents can help instill a love of reading in their young children. This appreciation for books will help carry youngsters through their school years and beyond.

This region is fortunate to have a number of top-flight libraries serving the public with a wealth of services. These include: the Cape Girardeau Public Library, the Jackson Public Library and the Riverside Regional Library. Kent Library on the Southeast Missouri State University campus also serves students and the community as well.

To celebrate the week, area libraries are planning a number of activities. For example, the Cape Girardeau Public Library will offer "The Great American Read-Aloud" tonight at 7. Various community residents also served as a "librarian for an hour" this week.

Area libraries also reach out beyond their four walls with book exchanges and various outreach programs. Cape Girardeau's Public Library is currently raising money to bring a bookmobile to town to expand on the idea of taking ~libraries to the people.

There's power in information. And most of this knowledge is available to library patrons at no extra charge.

Libraries are user friendly; they are there to enlighten and entertain us. But that can only occur if we actively participate. During National Library Week, let's all check out the library.