• By Don Dwiggins
  • Posted Tuesday, June 16, 2009

Public Library Use Surges During Recession

When economic times are tough, Public Libraries take on extra importance for communities. For job seekers, and those looking for a better job, libraries offer a host of resources. Libraries can help sharpen resumes, provide critical information on companies and their industries, give assistance for, and direction on computer training, and offer workshops on topics such as networking, interviewing, and re-inventing yourself into a new career. If you’re trying to stretch your budget the library offers free DVD’s, book-on-tape and DVD, current bestsellers as well as timeless classics, downloadable books and programs for adults, teens and children.

How important are Public Libraries to communities during economic downturns? The Today Show recently ran a feature on the importance of libraries in communities that included some eye-opening statistics. For example, did you know that 73% of public libraries report that they are the only source of free internet in their communities? For rural areas the number rises to 83%. Also, 68% of all Americans have a library card.

For a look at all the things the Forsyth County Public Library offers take a few minutes and explore our web page. From our program-laden calendar of events, to free on-line resources and everything in-between FCPL strives to provide a measure of service to Forsyth County, through tough times and good times, that is second to none.

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