Wellsburg Public Library earns special designation

 In an era dominated by video streaming, smartphones, e-reading and Amazon, public libraries (along with newspapers) can often feel like an anachronism of sorts. But that doesn’t mean great things aren’t still happening there, and for the second straight year, the Wellsburg Public Library has received a national “star library” designation from Library Journal.
           
Of the over 7,000 member libraries, Wellsburg was one of just 259 chosen for the recognition this year, and while taking a look around, it’s not hard to understand why. It’s massive, modern and technologically advanced, with thousands of editions available in print and online. Seven from Iowa were chosen, including Hubbard and Alden locally.
           
“We have a dedicated staff and board of trustees. I’ve had good boards lately, good progressive boards,” Wellsburg Public Library Director Karen Mennenga said. “They come at me with ideals that are good ideals so that I can implement them.” 
           
Mennenga did acknowledge that getting kids excited about reading is harder than it used to be as they gravitate toward computers and Youtube videos, but the WPL has diversified its array of activities for adults, especially senior citizens. 
 
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