Hurricane Irene disrupted daily life for residents of the eastern US this week causing many to turn to their public libraries for support.
Photo: Suzan Globus Raritan River, New Brunswick, NJ.
Public librarians across NJ documented visitors more than doubling as residents flocked to their libraries to charge cell phones, seek information, use the internet and talk to their neighbors. Strained wi-fi networks and seating capacities accomodated the crowds while library staff directed people to the resources and comfort they needed.
Photo: Suzan Globus People staring at the surging Delaware River, Stroudsburg, PA.
One library, designated as a shelter, provided cots and water to those evacuated from their homes. Others reported their staff volunteering to make snacks and drinks available to those seeking refuge from the storm. Another reported setting up a temporary business center for those unable to work from home.
As one librarian wrote, "We hope our library made a difference to many people in our community who did not have power and needed to use the library's computers to communicate with their families or businesses or needed to access reference resources and information or just a good book or library program for their family during this difficult time."
The storm underlined the value that public libraries provide to their communities, especially in times of need.





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