Find Your Joy at SJPL: National Library Week 2026

National Library Week is a nationwide celebration of libraries and library workers and the vital role they play in strengthening communities through access to information, stories, and lifelong learning. Each year, libraries across the country join together to highlight how these public spaces support curiosity, creativity, and connection for people of all ages.  

In 2026, the American Library Association invites everyone to “Find Your Joy,” a theme that celebrates the big and small ways libraries bring joy into our lives—from a favorite cozy reading corner to a life-changing resource or program. This year’s honorary chair is author and host of Reading Rainbow, Mychal Threets, known for his infectious enthusiasm for “library joy” and his work sharing the magic of libraries with a wide audience.

Celebration Days During National Library Week

As San José Public Library joins this national celebration, we invite you to be part of the story of National Library Week 2026.

• Monday, April 20: On Right to Read Day, the American Library Association publishes its annual list of the Top 10 Most Challenged Books from the previous year. You can explore challenged and frequently banned titles in our catalog and learn more about intellectual freedom through SJPL Staff Picks booklists that champion your freedom to read.
• Tuesday, April 21: National Library Workers Day is a chance to recognize the staff who help you navigate everything from your first library card to specialized resources like SJPL Works, TeenHQ, and our California Room local history collection. Consider stopping by your local branch to say thank you or share a “library joy” story in the comments below.
• Wednesday, April 22: National Library Outreach Day is a day to celebrate library outreach and the dedicated library workers who connect with our community outside the library. Look for us at local schools’ back-to-school events and at community gatherings like Viva CalleSJ and come by to say hello and express your appreciation to our hardworking outreach staff.
• Thursday, April 23: Take Action for Libraries Day is a reminder to advocate for libraries and library funding. We want every library lover to make their voice heard today. Head to Show Up for Our Libraries to learn how you can take action by calling or emailing Congress, writing a letter to your local news outlet, or posting to social media about how important your library is to your community and how important federal funding is to sustain our work.

National Library Week is just one week on the calendar, but the joy, connection, and possibility you find at the library can last all year long. Whether you are visiting a branch, exploring online resources, or sharing your own “library joy” story, you are an essential part of what makes San José Public Library such a vibrant place. Come celebrate with us during National Library Week 2026 and let this be the start of many more joyful visits to your library.