Libraries: An essential community resource

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Kelli Robinson

Kelli Robinson is a freelance writer who lives in Mooresville and has been contributing to Lake Norman Magazine since 2009. She juggles family and writing with humor and lots of chocolate, and enjoys experiencing all the Lake Norman area has to offer.

I’m giving a big shout out this week to the Mooresville Public Library. Mooresville residents, and anyone else in Lake Norman who relishes community resources, if you haven’t checked out this downtown gem recently, please do so!

This plug isn’t just from a mom who’s attended the children’s story hours. Although any parent with a toddler or preschooler wandering around the house should check out the weekly outings. Songs, stories, and stickers for the kids and a chance for moms and dads to talk with one another. My kids have outgrown story times; but, we still venture to the library on a regular basis. I love that there’s still one place in the world I can take my kids – free of charge – where the main attraction is books about adventures, inventors and every subject in between. An entire floor is dedicated to youth resources.

The Mooresville Public Library started in 1890 by a group of citizens who donated their books for people to rent for a day. Sure, today hardcover books are now browsed and renewed online, eBooks can be downloaded, and reading material isn’t the only thing patrons will find at the library. It’s still a resource by the people for the people.

The events calendar is filled each month with programs for everyone. Examples include weekly seminars like “Basic Computer Skills for Employment,” and special programs such as “Building Your Family Tree,” which helps participants learn to do genealogical research. Book clubs are offered. Families can enjoy movies the first Saturday of each month. And yes, the services are free.

In case you can’t tell, I think that a library is an essential community resource. It brings people together, provides information and entertainment. Did you know the Mooresville Public Library was ranked second in the state for its effectiveness in serving the community (according to a 2010 Hennen’s American Public Library Ratings Index)? The only one to top it was the Chapel Hill Public Library. How cool is that?

Our libraries have fallen on hard times as they compete with other vital programs and resources for funding. The effect on the Mooresville Public Library is reduced staff and hours, but not resources. Whether you’re looking for the latest on the New York Times Fiction Best Sellers list or are curious about North Carolina authors, stroll through the welcoming doors at 304 South Main Street. You’ll be glad you did.

Want to go?
Mooresville Public Library
304 South Main Street, Mooresville
Hours: Mon-Thurs. 9 am – 9 pm; Friday 9 am – 3 pm; Saturday 10 am – 3 pm; Closed Sundays
www.ci.mooresville.nc.us/portal/library

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