“I always felt, in any town, if I can get to a library, I’ll be OK. It really helped me as a child, and that never left me.” – Maya Angelou

The 89th Academy Awards Ceremony is coming up Sunday, Feb. 26. A common theme in the Best Picture category this year is the process of moving along with life in the face of adversity or tragedy.

The main character in “Manchester by the Sea” struggles to get on with his life after experiencing a horrible family tragedy.

The women of “Hidden Figures” persevere and contribute importantly to American history despite having to deal with injustice.

The father in “Fences” deals with personal fences he has put up due to bitter and unfair disappointments in his life.

We watch the main character in “Moonlight” grow up and deal with adversity and unacceptance at different stages in his life.

A soldier in “Hacksaw Ridge” strives to serve his country in war despite conflicting personal beliefs and the disapproval of others.

The characters in “La La Land” continue to pursue their dreams despite disappointment after disappointment.

Libraries have tried to be a source of help in difficult times, offering free job-seeking help, continuing education, skills-learning materials, and access to books, movies, and digital resources. In tough times, libraries can be a source of introspection and exploration. Wayne Wiegand’s 2015 book, “Part of Our Lives: A People’s History of the American Public Library,” highlights how in difficult times in American history libraries have stepped up to try and fill community needs.

From the Civil War to the Great Depression to World War II to Ferguson, libraries have provided a safe haven for patrons to access information and improve themselves. The book is available for checkout from the Madison College Libraries.

While the main purpose of the Madison College Libraries is to support students’ academic needs, we also strive to support their lifelong learning needs.

We offer material for students to help cope with situations in their lives. We also provide materials and workshops to help people improve themselves and explore new possibilities. The library staff can help you either in person, or anonymously through http://libguides.madisoncollege.edu/askalibrarian/email.

Oscars Contest

Want a chance to win a Marcus movie pass? Find a printable Oscars ballot online, make your picks in all 24 categories, scan it, and then use your Madison College student email account to send it to either [email protected] or [email protected] by Wednesday, Feb. 22.

The winner will be notified by email on Monday, Feb. 27.