If you haven’t been inside a library lately or haven’t thanked your local library staffers for all they do, this is the perfect time. It’s National Library Week.

Sponsored by the American Library Association, the weeklong event concludes Saturday. It’s a chance to recognize and highlight the value of libraries, librarians and library workers.

Go here to view and print a free National Library Week poster featuring Honorary Chair Caroline Kennedy, who made appearances in Seattle recently.

The message on the poster says it all:

“During NATIONAL LIBRARY WEEK and throughout April, libraries of all types host special events to highlight the unique role libraries play in people’s lives. Today’s libraries can help you and your family discover a new and exciting world through collections, digital resources and more. Whether you come for homework or job searches, help with citizenship issues or finances, adult education classes or to find the best books for young readers, libraries are a great place to spend quality time and connect with loved ones and friends.”

The State Library has an amazing number of historic and interesting items and collections about Washington and more. Go here to learn more about what the State Library has online and on its shelves.

First sponsored in 1958, National Library Week is a national observance sponsored by the ALA and libraries across the country each April.