Memphis Public Libaries
Wang-Ying Glasgow, MPL Adult Services Coordinator
LMS Intern Corey Jeffries sat down with Adult Services Coordinator Wang-Ying Glasgow to discuss Memphis Public Libraries’ wide variety of programs and services they offer to our Memphis community.
What programs do you offer to adult learners?
Benjamin L. Hooks library hosts a plethora of events for adult learners. Events like the annual ‘Bookstock’ festival create several opportunities for adult learners to get involved with their community by celebrating the magic of storytelling and cultural richness. Bookstock talks with local authors, book signings, and opportunities for new authors to learn from interactive sessions available. For those looking to strengthen their financial acumen, The library provides comprehensive financial literacy courses that provide a roadmap to financial success, and covering topics such as budgeting, investing, and future planning. Meanwhile, weekly ‘LINC 211’ sessions serve as a vital link to community resources, connecting you with valuable information and assistance tailored to the needs of those that access it. This is only a fraction of the programs available to not just adult learners, but knowledge seekers of all ages!
Why is your organization important to Memphis?
Cloud901 Teen Learning Lab at Benjamin L. Hooks Central Library
This is not a typical library that you walk into… This is truly like a community center, the library is a space, a welcoming space that welcomes people from all across the community where we provide fresh and fun programming for people of all ages.
What (if anything) have you appreciated about your partnership with Literacy Midsouth?
Literacy Mid South actually does their tutoring out of this library. This created a sort of partnership where we were able to host these adult learning sessions and in turn, new adults were being introduced to the programs that we offer here at the library.
If someone wants to support your work, what is the best way for them to do it?
At the heart of the Benjamin L. Hooks Library’s vibrant community initiatives are two invaluable pillars of support: donations to one of their major sponsors, ‘Friends of the Library’, and the dedication of community volunteers. If you believe in the power of literacy, education, and community enrichment, consider making a difference by contributing to ‘Friends of the Library’, as donations play a pivotal role in sustaining the library’s diverse programs, events, and resources that benefit the entire community. Additionally, volunteering for events significantly amplifies the effectiveness of the library’s resources. Through financial support and active participation, the community can foster a thriving hub of knowledge and connection at the Benjamin L. Hooks Library.
If someone wants to take advantage of your programming, what should they do?
Benjamin L. Hooks encourages you to unlock the full spectrum of their resources and experiences by visiting their website to explore digital archives, event calendars, and a wealth of resources accessible at your fingertips. It is also highly recommended to consider obtaining a library card- a free, all-access pass to a world of knowledge. Your library card opens the door to an extensive collection of books, digital materials, and exclusive services.
Memphis Public Libraries Frayser Branch
While the virtual realm is rich with possibilities, there’s a unique magic that happens within the library’s walls. MPL warmly invites you to step into the physical space, where the scent of books and the hum of community converge. Come in for a visit to one of 18 branches all across Memphis and attend events to immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of knowledge that defines MPL.
What is one thing you hope can come from the N-ABLE Coalition/Partnership?
The shared vision that extends beyond collaboration and encourages meaningful connections for adult learners and enriches the lives of our community members. Bridging the gap between adult learners and the plethora of programs offered by the MPL. This partnership would aim to introduce more adults to the diverse educational and cultural initiatives that the library proudly hosts.
Can you describe any recent partnerships or joint projects with other organizations that have been particularly successful or impactful?
At the heart of the Benjamin L. Hooks Library's success lies a critical partnership that fuels its mission and propels it forward - the unwavering support of ‘Friends of the Library’. Their commitment is instrumental in shaping and thriving the hub of knowledge and community that the library has become. “FOL” stands as a pillar that provides invaluable financial support that directly translates into a spectrum of enriching programs, events, and resources. Their partnership ensures that the library’s collections continue to expand, events like “Bookstock” can continue to thrive, and offer diverse educational programs for all ages.
Memphis Public Libraries’ breadth of programming, commitment to equity, and innovative approaches to longstanding issues make them an invaluable asset to our city. We are proud to collaborate with this historic Memphis institution to continue to promote, destigmatize, and enhance adult literacy and learning in our communities.
Learn more about MPL’s programming and events at memphislibrary.org.
