An increasing number of patrons like Joe Sheehi (front) visit Ricks Memorial Library to use the wireless Internet service while many others like Phillip Washington (back) come by for a quiet place to read. Photo by Jaslyn SnowBy JASON PATTERSON
Managing Editor

A struggling economy and two natural disasters in two years hasn’t hurt business for Ricks Memorial Library.
In fact, difficult times have had the opposite effect for Yazoo’s library services.
“If someone needed to put a roof on their house after the tornado, we have books explaining how to do it,” said Director Cindy Welch. “If you need to replace your floors after the flood, we have books on how to do that. If you need a job, we have the newest software available to help you complete your resume.”
Libraries typically experience an increase of usage during periods of economic stress. That has certainly been the case in Yazoo County.
Last year the library had 31,000 visitors by this time. This year the number has reached 36,000. -------for the rest of the story see The Yazoo Herald printed edition or subscribe to the Digital Edition.----------