Hundreds of libraries will participate in 'Money Smart Week @ your library,' April 21-28

CHICAGO — Libraries from Maine to Hawaii will be helping members of their communities become money smart next week, April 21-28. “Money Smart Week @ your library” is a partnership initiative between the American Library Association and the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago to expand Money Smart Week® to libraries across the country. More than 200 libraries in 36 states will present programs for all ages, and all stages of life, related to personal financial literacy.

“The Chicago Fed is proud to partner with ALA to leverage Money Smart Week as a platform for financial education across the country. Libraries are leading by example in communities everywhere and providing critical access to consumers regarding money management,” said Alejo Torres, Senior Outreach Program Manager, Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago.

Libraries are partnering with community groups, financial institutions, government agencies, educational organizations and other financial experts to help consumers learn to better manage their personal finances. General topic areas range from “Credit and Debt Management” to “Kid’s and Money” to “Retirement Planning” to “Savvy Shopping and Bargain Hunting.”

One of Falmouth (Maine) Memorial Library’s programs is entitled “Healthy Skepticism: Tips for Keeping Your Identity Safe,” while the Hawaii State Library’s programming will include a “Money Smart Family Storytime,” that teaches kids 3 and up about money through stories and crafts.

For some libraries, programs in Spanish are important. Kern County (Calif.) Library has a session on “Curso Bancario Basico,” and Pima County (Ariz.) Library will be providing homebuyer education with “Aprende el Proceso de Comprar Casa.”

Money Smart Week @ your library is not just for public libraries. The Chester Fritz Library at the University of North Dakota is hosting a program for faculty, students and staff on “Money Smart—Understanding Credit Scores and Cash Tiers.”

So check out the Money Smart Week® consumer map site to see what programming might be @ your library.