MADISON – National Library Week 2017 on April 9-15 is an excellent time to thank Madison Public Library employees for community service inherent with their jobs.

The week’s 2017 theme, “Libraries Transform,” reminds Americans that today’s libraries are not just about checkout materials but the assistance and activities they do for people.

“Libraries are places of creativity where people can meet to share a hobby, use a 3D printer, edit a video or use software to record their own music. Libraries offer access to tools, technology and training,” Laurel Best said. Best is Executive Director of Huntsville-Madison County Public Library.

On any given day, local librarians “read books to babies and toddlers, connect immigrants with citizenship services or provide internet access to those who can’t afford it at home,” Best said.

“The President and Congress are currently deciding how much funding to allocate to libraries next year. This funding is critical and could keep vital library services going for the next year,” Best said.

Best recognized numerous employees in the system’s 12 branches.

At Madison Public Library, Sarah Sledge is Branch Manager. Sledge was named “Community Servant of the Year” in Small Business Awards, sponsored by Madison Chamber of Commerce.

Nora Bahr pursues a wide range of interests, including poetry. Bahr is an expert in graphic novels and can help patrons find your next favorite book, whether a novice or veteran to the genre.

Amanda Campbell, assistant manager in Madison, leads the Knit 1, Read Too! Book Club and “helps keep the bustling Madison branch operating seamlessly. Among her many talents, Amanda is an expert in science,” Best said.

Librarian Devon Edwards is an expert in health-related topics. Teresa Thrower is the ‘go-to librarian’ for questions about good mystery novels, Best said.

Madison resident Mandy Pinyan is manager of the system’s Outreach department. Pinyan coordinates Youth Summer Reading, Ready Readers and the BookMobile. She also applies her exceptional interpretation of literature with the Puppet Troupe.

Blanche Orr, manager of the Triana Public Library, is an expert at customer service and always goes the extra mile to confirm that patrons get answers. Orr leads the Coffee, Cake, and Conversation Book Club.