As a retired children's librarian, I appreciate the praise y'all have heaped on libraries! During my tenure, we had weekly morning readings for pre-schoolers, lots of programs on Saturday mornings (the dog that did lots of tricks was the favorite and even came back for another performance) that were attended by children and adults. Some adults even borrowed children so they could come! And of course we had a four week summer reading program with suggested books, crafts tied to the story of the week, and a bulletin board with the participants' names.
One of the best programs was bedtime story--the children came in their pajamas, clutching a favorite soft toy, and parents sat with the child beside them or on their laps. I read a nice calming story or two guaranteed to give good dreams, and then they went home and to bed.
A nurse at the local hospital let me know about births and I made sure each new mother got a "library package" which was a board book, a library card with the child's name on it, and a list of upcoming events at the library. We got a lot of new patrons that way, both adults and children.
Ours was a "free" library, established in the 1850's when it was the custom to charge a subscription fee but this library was free. The town contributed a small amount but the majority of our financing came from patron donations (grandparents are particularly generous!) and fund-raisers held jointly with service groups like the Lions Club or the Friends of the Library. Libraries that are closing or cutting back on hours just aren't trying hard enough. If a library in a small town with a staff of four can attract volunteeers, donations, and run programs to interest the public, then almost any library can do the same.
I think I'll go read a book . . . .
You'll have to show us a photo if you do decide to make it!
Our local Hobbycraft do the same too.