The library isn’t just books anymore – there’s much more

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Raymond Mills
  • JBER Public Affairs
JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON, Alaska --  Welcome to the Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson library, an oasis that provides myriad services promoting education and entertainment for service members and families.

For thousands of years, libraries have been archives of important records and works of art.

Libraries are sometimes thought of as antiquated sources of information due to the convenience of modern electronics, but most libraries have expanded their missions to include digital media, and remain a vital part of the community.

"The JBER library is more than just books," said Jody Evans, JBER-Richardson reference librarian. "We offer many services, like story time for children, computer usage, study areas and much more."

Although the library remains focused on its mission of promoting literacy in the JBER community with monthly programs for all ages, the librarians remain ready and willing to assist with any library needs.

Evans said the JBER librarians are a friendly, helpful and caring bunch, who are genuinely concerned for customers and who strive to make visits as helpful and uplifting as possible.

For individuals who prefer their information in a digital format, the library offers Kindles, Nooks, and Sony e-readers for checkout.

It also offers free access to digital academic research papers and journals.
If patrons are unable to find the book, staff can get it from another library via the interlibrary loan program.

The library is a place to relax and read, and can be especially helpful during the winter months. 

"Due to seasonal affective disorder being an issue for some people in Alaska, we offer lights where patrons can sit for 15 to 30 minutes to get their daily 'sunlight'," said Evans. "We call them happy lights."

"Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson is my sixth duty station and I can say, with confidence, it has the best library I have experienced in my career," said Tech. Sgt. Vicky Whaley, 673d Air Base Wing Equal Opportunity specialist.

"The staff is wonderful and they offer programs that are supportive of the
military member as well as families, Whaley said.

"When I learned they offer the seasonal affective disorder lights in their facility, I was elated. My family and I utilize SAD lights ourselves."

The JBER library is located in the Education Center, on the first floor of Building  7, and is open 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday through Friday and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturdays.

The facility is closed Sundays and all federal holidays.