We’ve been hearing about the “loneliness epidemic” for a while now. While it may not be a new phenomenon, it remains a dangerous one, linked to higher risks of several chronic diseases. So, when I came across a recent NPR story, “Patients Are Getting Prescriptions to Socialize to Fight an Epidemic of Loneliness” by Katia Riddle, I immediately thought of libraries and everything we have to offer.
As a Children’s Librarian who spent over 20 years creating Early Literacy Storytimes, I’ve had the privilege of watching families attend storytime together, forging friendships between parents and caregivers as their children interacted. My own children, now teenagers, still keep in touch with friends they first met in storytime—friends they might not even remember meeting at such a young age.
I’ve heard countless stories of library book club members arriving 20-30 minutes early just to catch up, and of others who’ve built lifelong friendships from connections made at the library. Our monthly Memory Café, too, has become a valuable space for families dealing with memory loss and their caregivers, providing a chance to connect over shared experiences.
The library is the ultimate “third place”—that welcoming space outside of home and work where people can socialize or simply hang out. There’s no need to make a purchase to enjoy your time here. The library offers endless opportunities to make connections—whether you’re reading quietly in the historic Carnegie Library, joining one of our many book clubs, or diving into a craft or art project on a Saturday. You can also attend a lively storytime, bring your kids to LEGO Club and meet other parents, or connect with fellow homeschooling families at Homeschool Happening.
We all need human connection, and we all need people (yes, even you, my fellow introverts). You don’t need a prescription—or even a library card—to join in. This is your third space, your community library. We look forward to seeing you soon.
