In the mid-1950s, research showed that Americans were spending less on books and more on radios, televisions and musical instruments. Concerned that Americans were reading less, the ALA and the American Book Publishers formed a nonprofit citizens organization called the National Book Committee in 1954. In 1957, the committee developed a plan for National Library Week based on the idea that once people were motivated to read, they would support and use libraries. With the cooperation of ALA and with help from the Advertising Council, the first National Library Week was observed in 1958 with the theme “Wake Up and Read!”

National Library Week was observed again in 1959, and the ALA Council voted to continue the annual celebration. When the National Book Committee disbanded in 1974, ALA assumed full sponsorship.

• Monday, April 9: State of America’s Libraries Report released, including Top Ten Frequently Challenged Books of 2017.
• Tuesday, April 10: National Library Workers Day #nlwd18
• Wednesday, April 11: National Bookmobile Day
• Thursday, April 12: Take Action for Libraries Day

All week next week, Niles North will be handing out free books. For the past few years, the library has celebrated by painting bookends with students.

There won’t be much celebration throughout the week due to the late start and PSATs.

On Friday, April 13, there will be a carnival with face painting, cotton candy, mini golf, Hungry Hungry Hippos, tennis, basketball, ring toss and other fun games.

Caitlin Greener, a part of the library staff at North, said, “I think it’ll be really fun. The students will really enjoy it, and it’ll be a really good way to unwind at the end of the week.”