Dear Reader,
It has been far too long since we sent you a real letter. Fortunately, we finally have a good excuse. January 11–17 is Universal Letter Writing Week, and we would love to celebrate the art of handwritten correspondence with you. As Emily Dickenson wrote, “A letter always seemed to me like immortality because it is the mind alone without corporeal friend.”
We’re writing early so you have time to gather your supplies: pens, stationery, cards, envelopes, addresses, and stamps. And because we like a good challenge, we’re inviting you to write just one letter or card each day during the week. This is your opportunity to become a little bit immortal and reconnect with people with the written word.
For centuries, letter writing was the primary way people stayed connected across distances. Handwritten letters carried news, love, gratitude, and encouragement. While technology has made communication faster and easier, something meaningful has been lost along the way.
Letter writing is a chance to slow down and return to basics. This week provides a perfect time to send thank-you notes, words of encouragement, or a simple hello. All it takes is 15 minutes a day.
Write to someone far away—or someone across the room. Distance doesn’t matter. What matters is that you took time to handwrite. And yes, studies confirm that writing by hand is beneficial for the brain, enhancing memory, learning, critical thinking, and emotional health. This is because the physical act of forming letters engages more areas of the brain compared to typing.
We believe in the power of words, connection, and small acts that brighten the day. Join us in writing — tell us your favorite stories about how the library helped you or your community in 2025.
As William Wordsworth wrote, “Fill your paper with the breathings of your heart.”
With appreciation,
Your Library