The Iredell County Public Library announced on April 7 that it will celebrate National Library Week from April 19 to 25, highlighting the library’s role in bringing people together, encouraging imagination, and supporting lifelong learning.
National Library Week is recognized as a time for communities to appreciate how libraries offer access to books, digital resources, job assistance, and free events. The library said its offerings include unique programs, free Wi-Fi, digital collections, and STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) activities for children. “Whatever brings you joy, the library has something for everyone. Libraries serve as hubs for learning, creativity, and connection, helping people of all ages explore new ideas and opportunities,” the statement said.
Recent educational data shows that of 1,980 senior students in Iredell County school districts who took the science portion of the ACT during the 2022-23 school year, only 534—or about 27 percent—were considered ready for college according to state education officials. For junior students taking the same test that year in Iredell County schools (2,140 students), just under 29 percent met college readiness standards according to state reports.
In reading skills assessments from the same period in Iredell County schools: among seniors taking the ACT (1,980 students), about 37 percent were considered ready for college-level work as reported by state data. Junior student results were similar: out of 2,140 tested juniors in reading on the ACT exam during that year’s cycle in local districts just over a third demonstrated college readiness state records show.
Math scores followed a similar pattern. Of senior test-takers (1,980 total), roughly one-quarter met math benchmarks set by colleges according to education authorities. Among juniors tested (2,140 students), slightly more than one-fourth achieved math readiness levels based on official statistics.
First celebrated nationally in 1958 by sponsorship from the American Library Association along with libraries across America each April—the week aims to draw attention not only to traditional services but also modern tools like digital collections and community programming.