LEONARDTOWN, Md. — The Commissioners of St. Mary’s County proclaimed February 2026 as National Library Lovers’ Month during their Feb. 3 meeting, recognizing the role local libraries play in education, community connection and lifelong learning.
Commissioner Mike Hewitt presented the proclamation and reflected on his own experience growing up with libraries.
“I call myself a library lover because I moved to St. Mary’s County a little over 63 years ago,” Hewitt said. “My mother had to do something with us cooped up in that small apartment we lived in and would take us to the library. It was a wonderful experience, and it made me a lifelong library lover.”
Hewitt also noted the county’s long-term investment in library facilities, including the Leonardtown Library.
“I also like to say, 11 years ago this week, we started this discussion to get the new Leonardtown Library built,” he said. “Today, we got a wonderful library that needs additional parking.”
The proclamation stated that February is a time “to recognize the indispensable role libraries play in fostering literacy, lifelong learning and community engagement,” and acknowledged that St. Mary’s County Libraries provide “free and equitable access to information, technology and diverse resources for all residents.”
The commissioners officially declared February 2026 as National Library Lovers’ Month and encouraged residents to visit libraries in person, use online services and consider supporting the Friends of the St. Mary’s County Library.
Lilyanne Ohanesian, president of the Board of the Friends of the St. Mary’s County Library, thanked the commissioners for their continued support and highlighted the organization’s financial contributions.
“There’s no better time than now to celebrate love of libraries, since it coincides with our end-of-year grant to the library of $47,000,” Ohanesian said. “That was just enough to take us over our million milestone of $1 million in total contributions since we were created in ’92.”
She emphasized that those contributions are made possible by volunteers and community support, including book donations and fundraising sales.
Young library patrons also addressed the commissioners, sharing personal stories about how libraries have shaped their lives.
“The library is, like, my favorite place to be,” said Lucy, 10. “I love going to the library, and it’s a very important part of my life.”
Mary Jean, 7, said the library helped improve her reading skills and confidence.
“The library makes me feel happy when I walk in,” she said. “I’m thankful we have a library like this.”
Library staff and supporters echoed similar sentiments. Marianne Bowman, deputy director of the St. Mary’s County Library, praised the Friends of the Library and staff members.
“They are amazing,” Bowman said. “We couldn’t do it without them.”
Michael Blackwell, director of the St. Mary’s County Library, thanked volunteers, county departments and commissioners for their continued backing.
“Thanks for all you do to make St. Mary’s County a great place to live, work and raise a family,” Blackwell said. “Thank you to the county commissioners for your support for libraries over the years. It is greatly appreciated.”
The proclamation was signed Feb. 3 by the commissioners of St. Mary’s County.
Visit St. Mary’s County Library for upcoming events and information.
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