MARBLEHEAD — Around 60 people gathered at Abbot Public Library yesterday for the Northeast MA Library Legislative Breakfast, where they discussed the vital role of libraries in communities and received legislative updates.
According to Kimberly Grad, Abbot Public Library director, libraries are considered third spaces — places where people can find community and comfort outside of the first space, home, and the second space, school or work.
“I really see the library as the indispensable building in any community,” said Rep. Jenny Armini, who added that there was a “terrific energy” at the breakfast.
Abbot Public Library Foundation director Elizabeth Wilkie reflected on her personal experiences with Abbot and the role that all our local libraries play in the support of young families.
“Libraries serve as a gateway to the world of books for children,” she said. “Although my daughter is still in preschool, our visits to the library help foster early literacy skills, and I hope [they] will instill a lifelong love of reading through engaging story times and interactive activities.
“I have fond memories of selecting piles of books from this very library — a tradition that I now enjoy sharing with my daughter. She even has a dedicated tote for her library books, and she loves carrying her choices out to the car after we’re done — if the bag isn’t too heavy.”
Wilkie added that her daughter is gaining more from Abbot than just literary skills.
“Just recently, she even attempted to play checkers after observing some older children downstairs — a wonderful example of how much she is learning from this environment,” Wilkie said.
Karen Traub, Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners representative, spoke about some priorities regarding libraries in this year’s state legislative agenda. There were three bills mentioned, which regarded free expression and combatting potential book bans, maintaining library standards and improving proficiency, as well as ensuring there is digital access to books through e-books and up-to-date technology.
“It was a great event,” said Senator Brendan Crighton. “It’s always very powerful to hear directly from our constituents and those bringing these great resources to our communities.”
