April 2014: From the Director's Chair

April brings the fourth letter in the acrostic poem for library - R. The most obvious word associated with this letter is read, and for most people, reading is synonymous with libraries. Being able to read makes you ready for life. As you learn to read, improve your vocabulary, and learn to communicate well both orally and in writing, you are making yourself ready for a variety of opportunities.

Young children recite the alphabet, learn to read, and do well in school. Studies show that children are happier when they are read to and when they are exposed to adults who read. A child's reading level often determines whether they are ready to advance to the next grade or not. Teachers often tell children's libraries they they can pick out which students participated in the library summer reading program because of their reading skills.

Teenagers may use "creative" spellings in their texts, but being able to read well (and correctly) enables them to explore the universe. From blogs to Facebook, you must able to read to understand content and its context. You must also be able to read to write. Communication is very important and successful communication relies on how well you express yourself. Reading a wide variety of authors and subjects makes you ready to understand and discuss a variety of issues. Being able to read and communicate well also enables you to successfully complete driver's license exams, college applications, and other entrance exams which help lead you toward a successful future.

Applying for jobs beings in adolescence and continues throughout our lives. Many applications must be completed online and the instructions are sometimes complicated. Being able to read makes anyone at any age ready to complete applications. In the workplace, promotions often depend on your ability to read as well.

Middle-age brings the raising of children, and while experience and advice from seasoned parents can be helpful, reading about parenting issues can broaden your insights. I'm not sure anyone is ready to be a parent!

As you get ready for retirement, reading about insurances, retirement locations, investment strategies, and the psychological impact of retirement is extremely important. In the end, literally, everyone should read and prepare the necessary documents including a living will, power of attorney, and other documents to make your passing easier for your loved ones.

The ability to read makes you ready for life!