Letter from the Library Director: Celebrate Women @ Your Library

The light of longer spring days is finally here, and it’s nearly impossible not to feel the possibilities inherent in the turning of the season. Nothing matches the rising energy of spring, both in nature and within ourselves. Maybe our lives begin to feel less off-kilter, more aligned with what we wish and hope they would be. And it’s not always that things are so different, but our perspective changes.

March is Women’s History Month, commemorating and encouraging the study, observance, and celebration of the vital role of women in American history. International Women’s Day, celebrated annually on March 8, is a global celebration of the economic, political, cultural, and social achievements of women. We cannot succeed without girls and women and this month is dedicated to appreciating their efforts. Check out our additional resources recognizing Women’s History Month in this newsletter.

Speaking of women…did you know that entrepreneurship statistics for 2021 show that women own 31% of small businesses or franchises in the United States? According to the Small Business Trends survey results, the percentage of small businesses with women owners is up from 27% last year in the United States. Women-owned businesses are a critical component to our nation’s economic viability and a necessary cornerstone in the foundation to building viable communities in Florida. Starting a business allows women to reenter the workforce when they are ready, in a way that supports their lifestyle needs. And, when you support women-owned businesses, you are investing in women’s economic empowerment, gender parity in commerce, vibrant communities, and the growth of the economy overall.

There are many organizations ready to assist women to start, run, and grow their business. Here are just a few:

In addition, SJCPLS offers the following business and career-related databases from our website:

Whether it’s time to plant a garden, start a new hobby or business, or make other changes, do those things with all the vigor you can muster. And, what better place to celebrate ideas and the growth they can bring than at the Library? Stop into one of our six branch libraries or two bookmobiles today for personal assistance or check out our online business and career resources in our eLibrary. SJCPLS is here for you.

Debra Rhodes Gibson

Library System Director, St. Johns County Public Library System