Libraries are one of the favorite environments for authors. It’s where stories are read, shared, born, and yes, written. Often taken for granted and sometimes hanging on by a financial thread, these stalwart supporters of the literacy moment need your support. Facing economic, technological, and yes, political challenges, libraries still stand the test of time. Simply put, libraries need some TLC. Need more convincing?

Here are five reasons to love your library. 

Libraries are the heart of every community. If you want to know what’s going on in your area—and often the world—libraries have the 411. They also serve as the central meeting or information dissemination point for groups, clubs, activities, and programs for all ages. It’s rare to walk into any library and not see a gathering of book club members, afterschool participants, Storytime learners, or community leaders deeply engaged in lively discussion.

Libraries promote literacy. I think we can all agree that no matter your age, you can learn to read at a library. Books, for one, and tutors for another, make the perfect partner for literacy outside of a formal classroom. I used to be an ESL tutor at one of the libraries in my community and through another, I worked with women in a detention center, helping them brush up on their reading fundamentals. This endeavor served both parties, as I also had the opportunity to brush up on literacy skills and learn through the one-on-one partnership. I’ve seen adult patrons learn to read for the very first time thanks to the efforts of librarians and volunteers and don’t even get me started on kids. The story hours, moms and tots programs, and after-school literacy activities are enhanced education-based pursuits.

Libraries provide learning opportunities. Next time you’re on your library’s website or stopping by to check out a book, pick up a newsletter or check out the community bulletin board. There’s bound to be a list of learning opportunities and one designed just for you. Topics such as craft making, foreign language learning, guest speakers, and estate planning are just of a few of the commonplace learning opportunities available without a library card (which, I’ll take this moment to remind, is free!). Libraries are also incredibly accessible. Just about every library has resources that cater to specific needs, including large print and audio books and physical and disability supportive resources. Many libraries also offer comfort to patrons with mental and physical health challenges, including emotional support animals and assistive team members to bridge the gap between need and access.

Libraries hold possibilities. Countless authors mention libraries as the place they first fell in love with books and the possibilities of writing ones. But it’s not just about being an author, it’s about being human. From learning about finances or exploring a foreign country from the comfort of an easy chair, books and resources open all types of doors. When you’re stuck and don’t know where to start on a project or process, or you are unsure of your next steps in life, browse the shelf of your local libraries and possibilities will bloom.

Libraries are launching points. Whether you’re planning a trip to an exotic destination or wanting to build a hefty nest egg for retirement, libraries are great places to start. From community education courses or reference and “how-to” books, libraries are the perfect starting points for ideas and inspiration. If you’re not sure where to begin to go from “A” to “Z” just ask your reference librarian. He’ll be happy to guide you to a plethora of resources (books, courses, community contacts, etc.) to help you along the way.

Libraries are also great launching points to learn about your community. I’ve moved dozens of times in my life and at least seven times to new communities (and states). The first place I go is my local library. It’s there I learn about the community, find groups to get involved in and make new friends, discover activities and events that will give me a sense of community, get resources that I need to set up my home and business, and most of all, grab some great books to help me over the transitional hump. Finally, this is the ideal place to raise a reader. When your child (no matter their age) is introduced to the fun and book-filled ambiance of a library, it will imprint a happy memory and launch their independence, courage, and desire to become a life-long reader.

I hope this article provided you with a few applicable ideas. I would be honored if you shared this on social media. And speaking of sharing, please share your own ideas and experiences below. Together, we can build an uplifting community that focuses on supporting each other’s happiness, wellbeing, creativity, and success.