April 19-25 is National Library Week! This year’s theme is “Find Your Joy” — an invitation for people of all backgrounds to explore and discover what sparks joy in them at the library. The theme amplifies a message that is ever-present in Mychal Threets’ viral videos about the innumerable ways people can find joy in the library and in his debut picture book, “I’m So Happy You’re Here: A Celebration of Library Joy.”
During National Library Week, discover your library joy at the Whitewater Public Library!
• Stop by your library and bring someone with you.
• Participate in our Guessing Jar activity and enter to win a gift certificate to Earth + Iron.
• Help a friend sign up for a library card. It’s one small step that opens up endless possibilities.
• Explore something new: a book, a program, a class, or a conversation. From storytimes to makerspaces, author talks to job support, libraries are places where curiosity and connection come to life.
The celebration continues all week!
Monday, April 20: Right to Read Day, a day for readers, advocates, and library lovers to take action to protect, defend, and celebrate the right to read. The American Library Association (ALA) kicks off National Library Week with the release of its State of America’s Libraries Report, including the list of Top Ten Most Challenged Books of 2025.
Tuesday, April 21: National Library Workers Day, a day for library staff, users, administrators, and Friends groups to recognize the valuable contributions made by all library workers.
Wednesday, April 22: National Library Outreach Day (formerly National Bookmobile Day), a day to celebrate library outreach and the dedicated library professionals who are meeting their patrons where they are.
Thursday, April 23:Take Action for Libraries Day, a day to rally advocates to support libraries.
PLUS we have a full calendar of events for you this week, including the following special events:
“World of Words / Mundo de Palabras” A Bilingual Storytime
Tuesday, April 21 at 4:00-5:00 p.m.
Join Associated Bank and the Whitewater Public Library for a bilingual storytime! Enjoy several stories told in English and Spanish and be sure to stay for the craft afterwards!
America the Beautiful: Interactive Read Aloud
Wednesday, April 22 at 3:30-5:00 p.m.
Join us for an afternoon dedicated to the power of storytelling and celebrating the 250-year spirit of our nation. This special program explores how children’s literature captures the diverse landscapes, history, and values that define “America the Beautiful.” Celebrate the stories that shape our heritage and inspire the next generation. In partnership with the League of Women Voters.
Poetry Jam
Thursday, April 23 at 5:30-7:00 p.m.
Celebrate National Poetry Month with an open mic night at the library. Sign up to share a favorite poem or original work or drop in to listen. Registration is only required for those who plan on reading a poem. Learn more and register here.
To view all library events happening during National Library Week, click here!