Through my perpetual payment of overdue fines, I already support the library, but some people never seem to make it there. In fact, some seem oblivious to such institutions. Last year I heard of a “book rental” service aimed at college students looking to evade price gouging at campus book stores and had myself a laugh. What was being billed as an innovative creation/service was already in existence, in an even better, somewhat free form– the library. Instead of paying rental fees, we pay taxes. And if we have the magical ability to misplace books or forget that we have them, we then pay a late fee.

The Hartford Public Library informs us that April 11-17th is National Library week,

a time to celebrate the contributions of libraries, librarians and library workers in schools, campuses and communities nationwide. […]

“At our libraries, people of all backgrounds come together for community meetings, lectures and programs, to do research with the assistance of a trained professional, to get help finding a job or to find homework help, and to access computers,” said Matt Poland, the Library’s chief executive officer.

“Communities Thrive @ your library,” is the theme for this year’s National Library Week. On Thursday, April 15, 2010 Hartford Public Library will celebrate by giving each customer a potted pansy with a message to pass on to a friend, family member, or acquaintance who does not currently use the library, thereby creating a buzz around the many benefits that libraries offer.  Refreshments will also be served.

Something to remember: even with late fees, it’s still less expensive to borrow books than to buy them.