No act of kindness is too small

Kindness is a facet of everyday life that is often overlooked and taken for granted. Kindness matters: it is at the heart of our well-being. A public library is a welcoming place that is free to use, free from agenda, offers warm hospitality and has staff that spreads kindness.

A local library offers many opportunities for social, educational and recreational connections. With loneliness and isolation occurring so much in our society, it is clear that public libraries offer people a safe and welcoming space — and have a hugely significant role to play in spreading kindness to everyone. Libraries are a place to gather and build connections so they are the perfect place to spread joy and kindness throughout the community.

Did you know that being kind to others can lower your stress levels and your blood pressure? Being kind can also increase your energy level and your lifespan. In short, practicing kindness feels good, does good and makes the world a better place. Come spread kindness with us. Children of all ages are invited to paint kindness rocks with us at the Millvale Community Library on Wednesday, Aug. 21 at 4 p.m. Our goal is to unexpectedly brighten someone’s day and pass along some kindness — one rock at a time.

Here are also some random acts of kindness that you can practice in the library:

Become a volunteer or friend of the library.

Strike up a conversation with others about what they are reading.

Pay for copies or someone’s fine.

No act of kindness is too small. We encourage you to visit your local library, meet others, and spread kindness in your library and community. SUSAN McCLELLAN Executive director Millvale Community Library