NEWS RELEASE

For Immediate Release:  March 17, 2006
Contact:  Sam Gnuse, Altamont Public Library Board President
Subject: National Library Week 2006 at the Altamont Public Library

The Altamont Public Library will be celebrating National Library Week on April.  National Library Week is a time to celebrate the contributions of libraries and librarians to their communities.

“Books. Magazines. Videos. CDs. Internet access. You name it. The Altamont Public Library has something for everyone,” says Beth Speers, Librarian.  “National Library Week is celebrated by libraries throughout the United States.  This week is not only a great time to see what’s new at our library, but also a time to stand up and speak out as a library advocate,” adds Mrs. Speers.  “There are lots of opportunities to support the Altamont Public Library --  including our Buy A Book program, remembering the library as memorials, helping to sponsor the Summer Reading Program, shopping at our Used Book tables, and many others.”

“Our many services are possible because of the support of our patrons.  The library has begun a new program of a Wish List.  A list of a variety of materials will be kept at the circulation desk for anyone wishing to contribute towards purchasing a particular DVD, audio book, children’s book, music CD and other items that are not possible within the library’s budget.  If you wish to donate in honor of someone, or to recognize a special event such as someone’s birthday, or as a memorial, you can choose the item you’d like the library to purchase. A donation label will be placed to recognize the donor if desired.  What a wonderful way to acknowledge someone special or a special event.”

The Altamont Public Library was formed in 1908 and has continued to grow into today’s library.  The library currently assists over 1,000 patrons monthly access over 1,500 items circulated through the library.    The library offers not only books, magazines, audio books, video tapes, DVD’s, music CD’s, adult book club, local newspapers on microfilm, meeting room available to the public, geneology section, computer and internet access, copier, and fax machine.  The library has also recently been renovated with an updated circulation desk to allow easier access for both patrons and librarians. 

“National Hospital Week is a perfect time to recognize the hard work, expertise and dedication of the library staff as well,” according to Sam Gnuse, Library Board President.  “The library is staffed by three part-time librarians.  Beth Speers, Head Librarian, has been with the Altamont Public Library since 2000.  Karol Armstrong began working at the library in 2001 and Kris Logue started in 2004.  Our librarians are responsible for a wide variety of services that patrons come to expect from their library. They are in charge of more than just checking books in and out of the library. Library workers catalog and shelve materials; handle requests and send them to other resources; answer phone calls; organize programs and events; administer computer services;  select and obtain books, CDs, videos, and databases; and much more.  These dedicated workers make our library services possible. Stop by the library and let the librarian know you appreciate all she’s done for your reading enjoyment.”

The Altamont Public Library’s hours of service are Monday through Wednesday 2:00 p.m. to 7 p.m., Thursday 5:00 – 8:00 p.m., Friday 2:00 – 6:00 p.m., and Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.  Information is available through the Altamont Public Library website at www.altamontpubliclibrary.com.  Patrons may also come to the library in person to get help in finding what they’re looking for.  One of the most exciting and new aspects of the library’s services is the web interface.  This allows patrons to request loans, renew their loans, or research.  With a valid library card and a personal identification number (PIN), anyone can do the research any time of the day or night from home or office.

For more information about National Library Week and about becoming a library patron, visit the Altamont Public Library at 121 West Washington, call 618-483-5457 or see the library’s Web site at www.altamontpubliclibrary.com.