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Richland Library

From the Director

Melanie Huggins
Executive Director of Richland Library

Thanks for using Richland Library. Regardless of how you use library resources or services, I want to be certain you find the library to be useful, usable and enjoyable!

Take a moment to search the catalog, download e-books, music and more or find a staff pick for you or your child’s next read. You can also find information on programs and art exhibits, or read insightful updates written by our library team.

The library's bimonthly magazine, Access, includes my column, where I get to share stories, give reading recommendations and simply share my love of libraries. I hope the pieces inspire, inform and entertain you!

From the Director

From the Director - May/June 2013

A smart lady I know with two beautiful and equally smart little boys, stopped me in the grocery store and asked how things were going at the library. I replied, as I always do, that I have the best job in the best library system and that things were terrific. “Oh good,” she said, furrowing her brow, tilting her head and looking very concerned.  “Someone told me that libraries wouldn’t be around in the future and I didn’t want to believe it. I can’t imagine life without libraries.”

From the Director - March/April 2013

Our Main Library has a fantastic reputation, abroad as well as right here at home. Its contemporary architecture, green-tinted windows and trees growing inside the building, make it a landmark for downtown Columbia. The Main Library alone sees more than 1 million visits a year and more than 36% of all print books checked out in our library system come from this one facility. Each year, more than 20,000 children and families enjoy our world-class Children’s Room programs and top notch customer service.

From the Director - January/February 2013

Have you ever caught sight of yourself in a mirror and thought “Maybe it’s time for a new look?” Could be those acid washed jeans you can still rock (good for you!) or that closet full of plaid flannel shirts and Doc Martens that are still your go-to wardrobe staples. Or maybe you have a haircut that could just as easily be from 1963 as 2013? On the outside, you look dated and out of touch, but inside you still feel young and vibrant? That’s exactly how we felt.

From the Director - November/December 2012

Dear Friends,

From the Director - September/October 2012

Dear Friends,

Talk to any public librarian in the United States about what the profession values and I’ll bet you hear the phrase “freedom to read.” While you may never have considered your ability to read in need of defending, it’s constantly under attack. Just close your eyes and picture a librarian with a red cape, billowing in the breeze and a big letter “R” emblazoned on his chest. That shows seriously we take our job as “Freedom to Read Defender.”

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