The Appalachian Regional Library believes that civic engagement is good. In a world of increasingly divisive rhetoric, we all need to be reminded that we can work together on local issues in a positive and productive way. We believe that friendly and collaborative civic engagement is possible and, as a public library system, we believe we are uniquely positioned to bring together quality information about locally-relevant issues, local residents, and local organizations whose mission is to help alleviate concerns in our communities.  Therefore, in partnership with community agencies and educational institutions, the Appalachian Regional Library System strives to provide and promote well-written and engaging books related to a local challenge/issue of interest to our communities.  Furthermore, we strive to sponsor programming about books to create a public dialog and offer ways for readers and other interested parties to engage together in activities that have a positive effect in our local communities.

This grant is made possible by funding from the federal Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) as administered by the State Library of North Carolina, a division of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (IMLS grant number LS-00-17-0034-17).

Please click here to place a hold on the Adult Community Read: Cracked, Not Broken: Surviving and Thriving After a Suicide Attempt by Kevin Hines.

Please click here to place a hold on the Young Adult Community Read:

Logic ft. Alessia Cara & Khalid Perform "1-800-273-8255” | 2017 VMAs

What Are The Warning Signs For Suicide?

Seek help as soon as possible by contacting a mental health professional or by calling the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK if you or someone you know exhibits any of the following signs: 

• Threatening to hurt or kill oneself or talking about wanting to hurt or kill oneself
• Looking for ways to kill oneself by seeking access to firearms, available pills, or other means
• Talking or writing about death, dying, or suicide when these actions are out of the ordinary for the person
• Feeling hopeless
• Feeling rage or uncontrolled anger or seeking revenge
• Acting reckless or engaging in risky activities - seemingly without thinking
• Feeling trapped - like there's no way out
• Increasing alcohol or drug use
• Withdrawing from friends, family, and society
• Feeling anxious, agitated, or unable to sleep or sleeping all the time
• Experiencing dramatic mood changes
• Seeing no reason for living or having no sense of purpose in life

http://www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org

Here are a couple of quizzes from trusted websites that may help you determine if you or a loved one is depressed and in need of professional counseling.  If you have a moment, please take a look and try one out.