For more than 50 years, National Library Week (April 12-18) has been a time to celebrate the contributions of libraries, librarians and library workers in schools, campuses and communities nationwide.

This year's theme is "Worlds Connect at Your Library." Anyone who has ever felt transported to another place and time by a book found at the library or who has ever attended a library program that made a difference in self-understanding knows that to be true.

It may be as exotic as soaking up Italian culture through a travel magazine, as exciting as delving into James Patterson's latest thriller, as beneficial as using online language-learning system Mango to teach yourself Spanish, or as practical as logging onto the Internet to look for a job.

One week just isn't long enough to celebrate and experience all that libraries have to offer, so Southern Pines Public Library decided that National Library "Week" will last for the entire month of April with programs for all ages, sponsored by the Friends of the Library.

Pupils in grades K-2 and their parents are invited to learn more about "Community Helpers" with stories, songs, and crafts at "Family Fun Night" Thursday, April 16, at 5:30 p.m.

Middle school students are invited to get into the spirit of springtime by making their own Chia pets Tuesday, April 21, from 5 to 6 p.m., followed by free pizza.

The Teen Advisory Board is sponsoring an Open Mic Night Thursday, April 23, at 7 p.m. Musicians, singers, poets, writers, jugglers, and anyone with hidden talent is invited to express it at the library.

The annual Friends of the Library Book Sale will be held at the Southern Pines Train Depot Saturday, April 25, from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. Proceeds from the book sale enable Friends of the Library to provide additional programs and resources, such as multiple copies of high-demand books and summer reading programs.

Dog trainers William T. Clemons III, Linda Hubbard, and Barb Randall will discuss why their dogs are "More than Man's Best Friend" Sunday, April 26, at 3 p.m. Dog lovers and do-gooders are invited to come meet these dogs who "heal" as well as "heel." This program is part of the library's ongoing series "Explorations: A Forum for Adults."

Parents and children are invited to a special bilingual storytime to celebrate Da de los Nios (the Day of the Child) Thursday, April 30, at 11 a.m. Music and other fun activities are planned as well.

On Thursday, April 30, at 5:30 p.m. participants in the "BYOB" (Bring Your Own Book) Adult Fiction Discussion Group will share books from a variety of genres.

Pre-registration is not required to join nor to attend "BYOB."

The library also offers the "Read to Your Bunny" program. Toddlers and infants (along with their favorite adults) enjoy interactive stories, songs and rhymes. Toddler Bunnies (15-36 months) meet from 10:30 to 10:50 a.m. Wednesday, April 22. The Infant Bunnies (birth14 months) meet from 3:30 to 3:45 p.m. on Tuesday, April 28.

For more information visit the Library's Web site at www.sppl.net or call 692-8235.

Alice Thomas works for the Southern Pines Public Library.