Mayor honors librarians, announces it a week late.

On Tuesday's City Council Meeting, Mayor Samuel Parham presented two proclamations recognizing 2024 National Library Week and National Library Worker Day, as well as 2024 National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week.

Parham said that "libraries offer the opportunity for everyone to connect with others, learn new skills, and pursue their passions," while proclaiming National Library Week as April 7-13, 2024 and National Library Workers Day as April 9, 2021. The announcement, made on April 16, was about a week overdue. Fortunately, no library late fees were incurred.

"Libraries have long served as trusted institutions, striving to ensure equitable access to information and services for all members of the community regardless of race, ethnicity, creed, ability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or socio-economic status," added Parham. "During this week, I encourage all residents to visit the library and celebrate the adventures and opportunities it unlocks for us every day."

After the announcement was made, Library Director Wayne M. Crocker thanked the mayor and other members of the city administration for their ongoing support of the library. "I'd also like to thank the citizens of Petersburg because we're here to serve you and we could not do our jobs if you didn't come to the library and utilize all the resources here," he added.

Parham also announced that the city of Petersburg is celebrating the second full week of April, April 14-20, 2024, as National Public Safety Telecommunicators week, "in honor of those whose diligence and professionalism keep our city and citizens safe."

"This week...honors the thousands of men and women who respond to emergency calls, dispatch emergency professionals and equipment, and render life-saving assistance to the world's citizens," added Parham.

A representative from Petersburg's police department thanked Parham and the city council after the announcement was made. "We thank you so much for all your support, your patience, your understanding and your love that you give to the dispatchers each and every day," the representative said.