Base Library provides opportunities for Airmen

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class David C. Danford
  • 374th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan --  The Yokota library, voted best library in the Pacific Air Forces for 2013, is a valuable resource for military members and their dependents.

Providing service to more than 250 people a day, the library offers 19 online databases and programs in addition to hard copies of books, magazines and DVDs. For the staff working there, it's not just a job but an opportunity to give back to service members.

"One of the things I really enjoy is getting to serve those who serve," said Samuel Richards, 374th Force Support Squadron library director. "I feel that we can make a difference helping people find the information they need."

The library is primarily used by Airmen studying to gain college credits through the College Level Examination Program or the Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support program.

"CLEP and DANTES testing is one of our biggest circulating items," Richards said.

Another benefit to Yokota Airmen is the numerous volunteer opportunities provided. These include weekly children's story time readings and the upcoming 'Seussigras' event on March 4.The event came about because this year Dr. Seuss' birthday falls within one day of Mardi Gras. The Seussigras includes reading Dr. Seuss stories to children and making Mardi Gras masks.

"We're excited to put on this family program so we're hoping to have lots of families and as always we'll need volunteers to help out," Richards said.

For more information on the Yokota library call 225-8893 or visit their website at www.yokotalibrary.com.