Norfolk, VA (March 26, 2004) - "April 18-April 24 is National Library Week, a time to rediscover all that Norfolk Public Library, our librarians and our library workers have to offer and why there's something for everyone @ your library.

This year is a very important one for Norfolk Public Library. It marks the 100th year of free public library service in Norfolk. Prior to 1904, residents used private libraries which charged a fee. As we celebrate National Library week, we must remember what NPL offers our community. It provides a world of opportunity for all people, regardless of age, income or background. Whether you're checking out the latest bestseller or exciting video, researching your term paper, getting homework help, using the Internet or calling in a reference question from home, the library has the resources and staff to help you in your search. Librarians are the ultimate search engines. Their job is to help you find the answers.

Today, NPL offers more than ever. In addition to books, magazines, and audiovisual materials like books on tape, videos and CD's, the Library also offers weekly programs for children of all ages as well as special programs for adults. All Norfolk public libraries offer free Internet access and computers for the public to use. Some even offer computer classes on Excel, Word, PowerPoint and other software. The Library's web site offers full text databases and other library resources which you can access from anywhere in the world.

Norfolk Public Library joins the American Library Association and libraries across the country in encouraging our users to learn more about both new and traditional resources available. In recognition of National Library Week, Norfolk Public Library will offer the following programs: * Arthur Visits NPL: Arthur, Marc Brown's famous book character, visits all Norfolk public libraries. Join us for stories, crafts, activities and more. Arthur will attend toddler and preschool storyhours as well as family programs. Children should bring their camera and come prepared to shake hands with Arthur and take their picture with this loveable aardvark. (For a more detailed description of each program, visit our website at www.npl.lib.va.us.)

Monday, April 19
3:30 p.m., Janaf Branch * 441-5660
6:30 p.m., Pretlow Branch * 441-1750

Tuesday, April 20
4:00 p.m., Kirn Memorial Library * 664-7338

Wednesday, April 21
10:30 a.m., Horace C. Downing * 441-1968
4:00 p.m., Van Wyck Branch * 441-2844

Thursday, April 22
10:30 a.m., Jordan-Newby Branch * 441-2843
4:00 p.m., Park Place Branch * 664-7330

Friday, April 23
10:30 a.m., Little Creek Branch * 441-1751
4:00 p.m., Blyden Branch Library * 441-2852

Saturday, April 24
10:00 a.m., Lafayette Branch * 441-2842
4:00 p.m., Larchmont Branch * 441-5335

* Meet the Author: Essence Book Editor and Author Patrik Bass will present a program at Blyden Branch Library on Saturday, April 24 at 2:00 p.m. Bass is the author "In Our Own Image: Treasured African-American Traditions, Journeys and Icons" as well as other books. Kirn Memorial Library, 301 E. City Hall Avenue in Norfolk. Call 664-7323 for more information.