I’m one of those people who likes to have a word of the year. As I reflect on the last several years and think forward to 2024, one word stands out to me. Brave. Hiking in Arkansas initially intimidated me, but I discovered a true pleasure. Braving those elements to experience a view like no other is priceless. Traveling outside our comfort zones can be exhilarating, but first we must be brave and open the door to new ideas, places, foods, and experiences. And sometimes, we must work to be prepared to try something new. Regardless of your current circumstances, a new year and NLR Libraries offer you a place to rest, a place to be renewed, and a place to grow. 

My challenge to you: be brave. Check out one or more of our resources that reflect you. Then stretch a bit and check out something that helps you look beyond yourself.  

Libraries are a place of wonder and comradery. Here at NLR Libraries, we want you to come in, find a comfortable place to sit, and stay awhile. For us introverts, perhaps we strike up a conversation with a fellow library visitor. Or, we explore the free internet, check out new titles, and listen to free music with ear buds in, or be brave and join a program as we learn, sing, dance, or create our way to a better world.  

Don’t feel up to getting out in Arkansas’ winter weather? Certainly to be expected – I, too, prefer a warm blanket, cup of tea, and good book when temps are frigid. NLR Libraries has something for us homebodies, too. Go to nlrlibrary.org and peruse our digital library. Check out Creativebug for a craft idea, read the latest news, watch a documentary with Kanopy, stream the latest music with Freegal, or browse our latest ebooks with Libby or Hoopla. Whether you are home snug as a bug in a rug or out and about – NLR Libraries has something for you.