Georgetown, Del., April 17, 2012: The library is more than just a collection of dusty books. It’s a portal to anything we can dream or wonder.

Sussex County’s 14 public libraries are celebrating Sussex County Library Week this April to remind the public of the importance libraries play in a community. Libraries serve as cultural and educational centers that provide a wealth of knowledge and activities to the county’s nearly 200,000 residents, as well as the millions of tourists who visit each year.

Sussex County’s libraries are a trove of books and digital media, as well as centers for Internet access and programs. More than 1.3 million items were checked out from local libraries in 2011; more than 3,800 educational programs were offered for adults and children in that time.

“We want people to connect with their libraries,” said Kathy Graybeal, director the County’s Department of Libraries. “This is a good reminder of the best deal the public already pays for. We want residents to know how well their tax dollars are spent on a resource such as this.”

County Council, at its Tuesday, April 17, 2012, meeting, presented a proclamation to Sussex County library officials declaring April 15-21 as Sussex County Library Week. The proclamation follows National Library Week, held earlier in the month, to raise awareness of libraries and how they can help users pursue any interest or passion.

To learn more about Sussex County’s libraries, visit sussexcountyde.gov/libraries.

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