Times are still proving tough in the economy. It affects everyone in the nation, including local libraries.

However, there are always tireless efforts to help maintain them. One such effort is Gives Day, a charitable event to help raise funds for non-profit organizations.

Starting on Feb. 2, people everywhere in Alabama will have a chance to donate to this cause, which will be active from midnight until noon.

Alabama Gives Day hopes to raise as much money as it can in 24 hours. The funds raised will go to non-profit groups in Alabama, and will also benefit libraries in Gardendale, Fultondale, Warrior, Pinson and Tarrant.

Connie Smith, head librarian of Gardendale Public Library, points out the importance of charity events like Gives Day for libraries.

“We need people to recognize that our fundings have been cut,” she said. “We are going to participate in Gives Day and we encourage everyone to give. We hope everyone will support us.”

Gives Day has happened in Minnesota, Colorado, Pittsburgh and other states. This will be Alabama’s first time in the event.

People who wish to contribute can go to the website and choose their preferred organization to donate to.

Non-profit organizations benefitting from Gives Day also include those who specialize in animals, children, health, religion, environment, community, education and economy.

Donors to this effort can give money at www.alabamagivesday.org.