This week, schools, campuses and communities across the country celebrate National Library Week, a time to remind the public about the contributions libraries, librarians and library workers make to their communities every day.

In today's economy, libraries offer free resources to help people find jobs and learn new skills. Worlds connect at your library, with people of all ages and backgrounds finding entertainment, self-help or their place in the community. With free resources like books, magazines, DVDs, computers, online library resources and Internet access, you can find what you need to succeed in school, tackle new projects and discover ways to improve your health.

What makes the library unique is access to trained professionals - librarians - to help people find and interpret the information they need to make a difference in their lives. North Dakota libraries help keep us connected, providing a space for people of all ages to come together, while keeping us connected to events and people around the world. It's where you can keep up with world events, stay in contact with friends and family, or discover where you can volunteer your time in your local community.

What can you discover? Find out by visiting your library during National Library Week.

(The writer is the North Dakota state librarian. - Editor)