At a recent meeting, the Moore County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a proclamation declaring April 19–25 as National Library Week in Moore County. The proclamation, signed April 7, celebrates the role local libraries play in education, economic opportunity, and community connection.
Commissioner John Ritter presented the proclamation alongside Sandhills Regional Director of Libraries Jennifer Hatcher.
The observance is organized nationally by the American Library Association, which has sponsored National Library Week since 1958 to recognize the contributions of libraries and library workers across the country.
Ritter said the week serves as a time to celebrate libraries as essential institutions that provide free and equitable access to information, technology, and learning opportunities.
“Libraries serve as welcoming community hubs where individuals of all ages and backgrounds can connect, explore ideas, and engage in civic and cultural activities,” Ritter said while reading the proclamation. “Library staff and volunteers work diligently to provide innovative programs, digital resources, and personalized services that meet the evolving needs of the community.”
The document also added that libraries help bridge the digital divide by offering internet access, technology, and digital literacy training.
The proclamation encourages residents to visit their local libraries to explore available resources and thank library staff for their service.
Following the vote, Hatcher shared several examples of how local libraries affect residents’ lives.
She told commissioners that a Carthage pastor completed a bachelor’s degree in religious studies with help from library computers and staff guidance. Another resident used library resources to research small-business loans and later opened a bakery.
Programs for young families also continue to grow. Hatcher said baby story time sessions in Carthage have expanded from one weekly session to two because of demand.
More, local outreach programs extend beyond physical branches. The county bookmobile delivers books and services to homebound residents and nursing homes.
Hatcher also described the experience of a military family that regularly visits libraries in Pinebluff and Aberdeen. One of the parents has said that the library has become a central gathering place where their children are able to build early literacy skills, make friends, and feel connected to the community.
“Now, therefore, be it proclaimed, that the Moore County Board of Commissioners hereby proclaims April 19-25, 2026, as National Library Week in Moore County, as a time to celebrate the contributions of libraries and library workers, and encourages all residents to visit their local library, explore its many resources, and thank library staff for their dedication and service,” reads the proclamation. “The Moore County Board of Commissioners formally commends the Moore County Library Director, Alice Thomas, and all her staff for their good work serving the County with this critical resource.”
More, the commissioners also declared April Child Abuse Prevention Month and designated April 18 as Lineman Appreciation Day in Moore County.
Regarding Lineman Appreciation Day, the proclamation reads that “the Moore County Board of Commissioners celebrates and commends the work of all electrical utility linemen, who work in a profession requiring passion, dedication, and extensive training.”
Photo contributed by the County of Moore.
Abegail Murphy | Assistant Editor
Written by Sandhills Sentinel assistant editor Abegail Murphy. Abegail has been writing for Sandhills Sentinel since 2021.
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