Millions of people across the country visit their libraries every week. What’s the draw? Everything! From books and digital resources to professional development and creative programming, libraries are essential to thriving communities.  

National Library Week, April 6–12, 2025, is a time to celebrate the many ways libraries bring people together, spark imagination, and support lifelong learning. 

At Duke University Libraries, we invite the community to join the celebration! Whether you're a student, staff or faculty member, or just visiting campus, our campus libraries serve as hubs for learning, creativity, and connection, helping people of all ages explore new ideas and opportunities. 

Join us for two special National Library Week events at Perkins Library: 

National Library Week Crafternoon
Tuesday, April 8, 1:00 - 3:00 p.m.
Lobby outside von der Heyden Pavilion (near the e-Printers)

The theme for National Library Week this year is “Drawn to the Library,” so we’ll have blank button cutouts for students to draw and make their own buttons, coloring sheets and colored pencils, zine-making handouts, candy, stickers, and more. Get in touch with your artistic side and show us what draws YOU to the library!

Tote Bag Screen Printing with Super G Print Lab
Thursday, April 10, 1:00 - 4:00 p.m.
Lobby outside von der Heyden Pavilion (near the e-Printers)

Join us and Super G Print Lab (founded by Duke Visual Arts faculty member Bill Fick) and pick up a tote bag with a custom-drawn Duke University Libraries design. Get yours while supplies last. If the weather is nice, we’ll have the screen-printers set up outside in front of the main library entrance on Abele Quad.

At both events, we'll also be sharing information about how you can “Show Up for Libraries” and take action against reduced federal funding for libraries, particularly the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS).

First celebrated in 1958, National Library Week is a national observance sponsored by the American Library Association and libraries of all types across the country each April.