Date
Sunday
Apr

April 6

National Library Day

It's time to dust off your library card and celebrate National Library Day - immerse yourself in the world of knowledge, stories, and adventure!

Yearly Date
April 6
Type
Day

Introduction

Get ready to grab your favorite book and celebrate National Library Day on April 6! This day is all about recognizing the importance of libraries in our communities and promoting literacy. Did you know that the oldest library in the world dates back to over 5,000 years ago? Libraries have played a crucial role in preserving knowledge and providing access to information for centuries. Whether you're a bookworm or just love the peaceful atmosphere of a library, this day is for everyone to appreciate and support these wonderful institutions. So let's give a shoutout to our local libraries and all the hardworking librarians who make them possible!

National Library Day Timeline

3000 BC
First Known Library
The library of Ashurbanipal in Nineveh, now Iraq, is considered the oldest known library, with clay tablet artifacts dating back to approximately 3,000 BC.
300 BC
The Library of Alexandria
Founded by Ptolemy I Soter during the Hellenistic period, this iconic library held hundreds of thousands of scrolls and significantly contributed to the advancement of knowledge.
1440s
Gutenberg and Print Revolution
The Gutenberg Press democratized access to books and laid the foundation for communal libraries that could serve a larger public audience.
1731
First Subscription Library
Benjamin Franklin founded the Library Company of Philadelphia, the first successful lending library in America.
1850s
Public Libraries Act in UK
The Public Libraries Act of 1850 permitted the establishment of free public libraries in the United Kingdom.
1979
Digital Libraries Emerge
With advances in digital technology, the first digital libraries began to appear, allowing greater access to information archives.

How to Celebrate National Library Day

1

Host a library-themed party

Invite friends and family over for a library-themed party! Decorate with book-themed decorations, have a book exchange, and serve snacks inspired by your favorite books.

2

Create a book club

Start a book club with your friends or join an existing one at your local library. This is a great way to celebrate National Library Day and discover new books and authors.

3

Attend a library event

Check out your local library’s calendar of events and attend one that interests you. From author readings to book clubs to craft workshops, there’s something for everyone at the library.

4

Volunteer at the library

Celebrate National Library Day by giving back to your community. Contact your local library to see if they need volunteers to help with shelving books, organizing events, or other tasks.

5

Read a banned book

Show your support for the freedom of information by reading a book that has been banned or challenged in the past. Discuss the book with friends or on social media to raise awareness about censorship.

Why We Love National Library Day

A

Libraries offer endless knowledge and resources

From books to computers to educational programs, libraries are a treasure trove of information and learning opportunities. They provide access to an incredibly diverse range of resources that individuals may not have access to otherwise.

B

Libraries promote literacy and a love for reading

Libraries play a crucial role in promoting literacy by providing free access to books for people of all ages. They also often host reading events and programs that encourage a love for reading and help develop critical thinking skills.

C

Librarians are amazing resources themselves

Not only do librarians keep libraries running smoothly, but they are also incredibly knowledgeable and helpful when it comes to research and finding information. Don't be afraid to ask a librarian for assistance - they're there to help you!

National Library Day Dates

Year
Date
Day
2023
Apr 5
Wednesday
2024
Apr 5
Friday
2025
Apr 5
Saturday
2026
Apr 5
Sunday
2027
Apr 5
Monday