Jefferson County proclaims National Library Week; trustees highlight digital access and community services

The Jefferson County Board of Commissioners on March 24 proclaimed April 19–25, 2026, National Library Week in Jefferson County and heard extended remarks from library trustees and system representatives about libraries' expanding services.

Library leaders told the board that public libraries now extend beyond books, offering digital resources, job assistance and one-on-one help for residents without home computers or basic technical skills. “Libraries are essential to thriving communities from books to digital resources to job assistance and creative programming,” a library representative told commissioners, describing how staff help residents scan documents, access appointments and connect socially.

Marilyn Muma, introduced during remarks as president of the Jefferson County Library System board, and other trustees from Brookville, Reynoldsville and Somerville noted local programs that reach seniors, children and job seekers. Trustees pointed to examples including small-business development consultations hosted at library meeting rooms and digital resources accessible with a library card.

Speakers also discussed the social role of libraries after the COVID-19 era, saying book circulation and in-person visits are rising. One trustee described patrons who check in weekly, underscoring libraries' social-support function for people experiencing isolation.

The board voted to adopt the proclamation. Commissioners and attendees encouraged residents to “find your joy” at local libraries and noted a community-nominated library had been entered for a prestigious award (details in the commission packet). The proclamation and the trustees' remarks were followed by routine business that the board approved later in the meeting.

The library proclamation drew no formal policy action beyond the recognition; trustees asked for continued community support and public awareness during the week-long observance.