Huntsville Public Library is a gem among libraries...

Huntsville Public Library is a gem among libraries all across our great country. I have had the good fortune to live in many areas of the United States, from the east coast to the west coast and from the Canadian border to Alabama and points in between. I can honestly say our library, here in Huntsville, is first rate.

My children were regulars at the library storytime and learned that reading opened the doors to all kinds of possibilities. They were regular patrons of the library and the programs the library offered for the younger set. As they grew, the library became a resource for research papers and many other school projects. Helping in that process was a dedicated staff whose goal was to provide the materials that were needed to accomplish their assignments and provide an interesting, positive and informative experience for these young learners.

When you think of libraries, you first think of books. Our library is so much more. Besides offering the community access to technology and the training to use it, there are videos, music, the Heritage Room that offers geneology research, a department for the visually and physicaly handicapped, and if our library doesn't have the material you need they are most willing to search for it through the interlibrary loan program. I have been a patron of the library for many years and am always amazed at the quality and diversity of programs the library offers the community. They offer all of this on a shoestring budget, but with a smile on their face and a willingness to help that goes above and beyond the call of duty. Our library ranks #1 in the state for circulation, reference inquiries, patron visits and volunteer hours. In fact, HMCPL's volunteer hours are much greater than the combined hours of the next three systems below it. Volunteers support an organization that is doing things right.

This year I have the privilege of serving as the president of LearningQUEST, a 501(c)3 non-profit organizaation promoting lifelong learning for adults of all ages. We are partenered with the library and most of our courses and programs meet at the library. It is such a deligth to work with the library staff and be a part of such a dynamic organization.

My hat is off to the library staff and their willingness to help all who enter the library's doors. Keep up the good work you are so famous for providing to our community.