On our library bulletin board, we're going to give patrons the opportunity to share their favorite library stories with us on Snapshot Day. By way of example, we'll be posting several of the library columns published in our local newspaper, The Star Democrat (archive available at: http://www.tcfl.org/peak/).

Patron comments from the Ruth Enlow Library of Garrett County

"Although it's a small library, you can get me almost anything through ILL from anywhere in the country." Nancy Elizabeth Nimmich

"I am not sure what we would do without this library. I've always gotten exactly what I wanted." Harold Hudnall
"It's a very wholesome, pleasant atmosphere here." Bette Joe Hudnall

"I had a great time at Lapsit this morning. Kora smiled and watched Keela read stories intently and enjoyed being with all the other children. Garrett Countians, we have the greatest library system for such a small community! Hooray!" Erin Gambetta

“Staff are always helpful and smiling. I travel around the shore for my children and visit many libraries. This is in my opinion THE BEST. Everyone is friendly and goes beyond their call of duty to help.” –
Angelina Sewell

“I am always so delighted with the prompt and courteous service you
extend to me. You are to be congratulated on your customer service
and your especially professional and pleasant manner.” -
Sandy S.

“Kathie and I want to thank you and all of the other reference staff at the Caroline County library for all of you gracious and most helpful assistance last week when we inquired about locating the ******** property.” -
John M. Johnston,
Professor and Director of Assessment
College of Education
University of Memphis

“I now have a collection of healthy meals for my
husband,” she says. “I’m happy to report
he has lost over 30 pounds and his blood
sugar is in a healthy range. Thank you Caroline County Public Library!” Becky Morean

“I will now and for as long as can be, recommend The Caroline County Public Library”, said Mr. Elder. (job search and relocation help)

“The library played a huge part in getting our business going” – Jodi Janvier, Restaurant owner

“The staff assisted me in earning my degree. I was computer challenged and they taught me computer skills, how to research and to use authoritative resources such as Ebsco and other online databases available through the library’s website. “The library itself is fun to visit, but it is the staff who were fundamental in assisting in getting my degree and starting my small business.” – Lisa Wallace

Caroline County Public Library is dedicated to meeting the informational and educational needs of Caroline County citizens. With the continued economic downturn, we are reminded daily that library services are needed now more than ever. However, severe budget cuts last fiscal year and this year resulted in reduced days of service at all Caroline County Public Library locations.

Even Snapshot Day was affected, as the Central Library (our largest location) is now closed on Tuesdays. Nonetheless, our Federalsburg and Greensboro locations, along with our Bookmobile, continued to offer their services Snapshot Day. The photos tell the story of how our library is a crucial bridge to lifelong learning, research and love of reading in Caroline County.

Storytime programming is a top priority at the Caroline County Public Library. Research shows that the early literacy skills that children acquire at storytime programs are essential to the developing reading skills when children start school. The photos of our Greensboro location show three Head Start classes enjoying storytime together at the library. The library has a thirteen-year partnership with Head Start, the cornerstone of which is weekly library visits by all Head Start students.

These are just a few of our customers' comments:

"I love books and I have led a very troubled life. My dad is dead, my mom is crazy, and I'm in foster care. When I read I could be sitting in my bed but mentally be in Canada snowboarding. It helps me escape from my troubles. It makes me happy. I'm happy I can just come to the library, get books and discover great new authors. All the people at the desk are so nice. The library is my best friend. I'm 11 and I love my library very much." - Danielle L.

"It is a home away from home! A place to find adventure, information and more. Since I was little, the public library has been my favorite escape." - Dedra V.

"As a former librarian with the Library of Congress, I appreciate the expertise, knowledge, professionalism, courtesy, and friendliness exhibited by the staff of all the branches of Charles County Public Libraries." - Jeffrey M.

"One of my first memories was going to the library with my mom. We took out Thumbelina and on the way home stopped to look at the beautiful pictures while she read to me. Ever since, the library has been a refuge for me. A safe place. A quiet place. Some where to read. To get information. To bring my children. To be alone and still be with people. I love the library and all that it offers." - Perry W.

"There are so many opportunities and they are free. It's especially valuable to me right now while my computer is down to be able to keep up with my computer needs." - Janet S.

Whenever I have needed additional assistance on finding or researching DIY, medical matter, technology matter, etc., I always found someone who could help me find the materials and answers I needed. Your library staff has always been outstanding, helpful, supportive and responsive to my special requests. My thanks to all of you." - Frank V.

I use this library because it is easily accessible for me and my handicapped daughter. My daughter is currently taking courses and uses your reference books. It is easy to park and get into. Everybody is so friendly and helpful here – it is so relaxing, we’d love to bring in a cot and live here. Peggy Werner
I work at a day care center and am sent over here frequently. I am asked to pick up 20-30 books on a subject and I usually find what I’m looking for, with the help of the staff. Robin
This library has a nice staff that helps you find any book you ask for. This library is the best I’ve been to. Mario
I enjoy the library because the staff helps me find research material I need for college classes. DSL computers are a wonderful resource when what you have is dial-up at home. The staff provides a friendly and relaxed atmosphere which makes me enjoy being here. Jacquelyn B. Werner
I use the computers – much more up to date than my Windows 98 – and also to print documents. I check out books to read and DVDs instead of TV. When I’m driving by, I cant never just pass the library by and miss out on an opportunity to visit. I use the library a lot. Madelyn Treadway
I like find the items that are hidden at the library. I like playing with the toys and getting books. Ava Age 5
I have been going to the morning book group for years. We are all friends now and go on trips and sightseeing tours together. Nancy

Carrie Neal says of her baby boy: “He’s been coming to the library since before he was born. All three of my children have. We’ve been reading to them since before they were born too. My 3-year-old doesn’t want picture books. He calls them baby books. He only wants chapter books.”