To the Library and Beyond
Library volunteers are hoping to begin April with the Big Move back to the Community Hall soon after Easter. 
Each year in April the American Library Association presents Youth Media Awards like the Caldecott Medal, the John Newberry Medal, the Geisel Award and the Coretta Scott King Award for outstanding materials for children and teens. 
April is Diversity Month, honoring the common essence of humanity in all its diverse expressions. 
With tax day looming just ahead, April is fittingly designated Financial Wellness Month.  It’s a good time to renew all those financial resolutions for the year.  When financial worries get you down, take advantage of the “D.E.A.R.” acronym; it’s time to “Drop Everything And Read” or perhaps you may find respite in music as it is Jazz Appreciation Month, also. 
Nationally, April is dedicated to Autism Awareness, Braille Literacy, Hobbies, Poetry, Stress Awareness, School Libraries, and “[raising awareness of the Deaf community and their History by celebrating the accomplishments of people who are deaf and hard of hearing].”   
On Monday, April 1, when people like to play pranks on each other, it is “Reading Is Funny Day,” another way to enjoy some fun.  Tuesday, April 2 is “International Children’s Book Day,” so don’t forget your children’s books.  Thursday, April 4 is “National School Librarian Day” and school librarians truly deserve a special day for all they do.  Friday, April 5 is “National Read A Roadmap Day”; that will help you learn more about where you are going! 
In 2022 Prairie Community Library served 1,945 people; 543 of them were children.  In 2021 we loaned 2,479 items. 
The volunteers at Prairie Community Library remain dedicated to serving the literary needs of the community to the greatest extent of our resources.  We aspire to develop services with sustainability, growing by adapting to changing needs. 
Volunteers to help move books and furniture are very welcome; please volunteer by sending your message to cottonwoodlib@gmail.com.  Thank you!