Partner Spotlight: NCW Libraries
At Thriving Together NCW, we believe access to community spaces that foster belonging and support is essential for helping people move out of isolation and struggle and into a place of thriving. That belief is what inspired us to collaborate with NCW Libraries on a new video series highlighting the powerful role libraries play in advancing the Vital Conditions for Health and Wellbeing.
More than Books: Redefining the Role of Libraries in Community Life
For many of us, the word “library” immediately brings books to mind. And while free access to books and information remains a cornerstone of the library system, it’s only part of the story.
NCW Libraries offers a wide range of programs, resources, and experiences that support whole-person health and wellbeing, creating ripple effects that extend far beyond library walls.
This video series invites us to rediscover our local library as a living community space that sparks curiosity, strengthens civic life, and creates the connections that help people thrive.
Advancing Multiple Vital Conditions
Libraries are often most closely associated with the vital condition of Lifelong Learning, and for good reason. NCW Libraries provides free access to resources, technology, and learning opportunities that support people at every stage of life. Along the way, they also create pathways to connection, opportunity, and wellbeing.
By expanding access to tools and opportunities, NCW Libraries is strengthening a variety of other vital conditions such as Meaningful Work and Wealth and Basic Needs for Health and Safety. A powerful example of this is our partnership with NCW Libraries to create teleconference spaces at select branches across the region.
Approximately 20% of residents in North Central Washington lack reliable internet, private space, or access to digital tools. These barriers can make it difficult to access telehealth care, attend online classes, or participate in job and scholarship interviews.
Libraries, as trusted and neutral community spaces, are uniquely positioned to help close these gaps.
“Thriving Together NCW has been an invaluable partner in helping NCW Libraries reduce barriers and increase access across our region. Together, we’re creating opportunities for connection, care, and support that make a real difference in people’s lives.”
Teleconference rooms are currently available at the Curlew, George, Leavenworth, and Warden library branches. To learn more, visit ncwlibraries.org/meeting-room.
Building Belonging & Civic Muscle
Aside from helping people build technical skills, libraries also play a critical role in advancing Belonging and Civic Muscle. NCW Libraries offers programs and activities that bring people together around shared interests, encouraging conversation, relationship-building, and community engagement. These kinds of spaces, outside of work and school, are essential for building healthy, connected communities.
Community Connections highlights the library as a space where civic life can grow. It shares how NCW Libraries collaborates with partners to bring people with differing views together in ways that encourage listening and understanding.
In Latino Connections, Community member Sandy shares how libraries are more than just a quite place to study or read. They are also places of movement, creativity, and expression. From folkloric dance to yoga, people of all ages can connect through shared interests and cultural celebration.
Prevention and Recovery offers a deeply personal look at how library programs can change lives. One community member shares how participating in a library-hosted program connected him to vital resources and meaningful relationships that supported his journey to sobriety.
“The resources I found there and the friendships I was able to build as a result of the program, that saved my life.”
Discover What’s Possible at Your Library
The stories in this video series are just a snapshot of what is happening every day at NCW Libraries. From learning and increased access to healthcare to cultural celebration, civic dialogue, and recovery support, libraries are opening doors to opportunity and connection across our region.
We invite you to discover what’s possible at your local library. Stop by, explore a program, use a resource, or simply spend time in a space designed for community. The possibilities are truly endless.
To learn more about NCW Libraries, upcoming programs, or available resources, visit ncwlibraries.org or contact your local branch.