Isn't it interesting that, during times of economic hardship, library use skyrockets? Sure, many people are coming for job search help, and some to use the computers to apply for those jobs. But some come for the stories.

From early times, we humans have used stories to make sense of our world. When we're under stress, experiencing - hearing, reading, or viewing - stories reminds us that our problems are not so large or so unusual, that there are always challenges just as there is always hope. And we use our ability to narrate our daily lives - telling the stories - to help us to acknowledge our experiences and move on.

Riverway Storytelling Festival lasts for just seven days a year, but the need for stories is ever present. As we prepare for Riverway Storytelling Festival 2010, we hope that you're telling your own stories daily this year, and that you're visiting the library often for the stories!

WHAT'S NEW?

We're looking ahead to 2010 with a terrific slate of featured tellers! Already booked and eager to come to Riverway are Charlotte Blake-Alston, Willy Claflin, Donald Davis, and Liz Weir, traveling from Philadelphia, San Francisco, Ocracoke Island (NC), and Northern Ireland, respectively. Make sure you have April 19-25, 2010 on your calendar, because you won't want to miss Riverway 2010!