Library Programs--Come One Come All (I Hope!)

I've been spending a bit of time on the perch lately thinking about library programs, especially since we're getting ready for our new fiscal year that starts in October.  Pondering the programs we've had and whether they've been successful.  Wondering what new programs would be of interest to all my fans, I mean, patrons out there.  Researching the programs other libraries offer and how those programs are received.

This is what I've concluded--although our library may be small, we offer a lot of the same programs that the bigger libraries offer, yet for some reason that's beyond me, our attendance is sadly small. 

Now being the chipper perch librarian that I am, I'd like to see the glass as being half full.  We have great computer classes for both beginning and more advanced computer users.  We have interesting workshops that teach nifty things like genealogy, origami, and local travel sites.  And we have entertaining and ongoing programs like the Spin-a-Yarn (during which you can learn or work on a knitting or crochet project) as well as a book club that discusses various books that have been recently published.

Don't forget that the library is more than just books and even other items that can be borrowed.  It's also more than just storytime and school programs for kids.  The library is a place where you can take classes, learn fun things, and get to know the people in your community.  Be sure to make full use of your library and attend a program or two.  You won't regret it.

Hoping to spy some future library program participants from the perch.

Happy New School Year!

Parents may be looking forward to it and kids may be less than enthusiastic about it--the start of another school year.  It's almost time to say goodbye to those long, warm, carefree days of summer and say hello to going to class, doing homework, and taking part in after-school sports and activities.

So, what can you do to help your children get ready for school?  Whether or not your family has taken part in the summer reading program, there's nothing like reading to get everyone back in that school frame of mind.  Read whatever is interesting, from fiction novels to non-fiction books. 

If you have smaller kids who are apprehensive about starting school for the first time or returning to school, the library has plenty of books for children that can help relieve their school anxieties.  We also have books for parents that provide suggestions on how to make the first days of school easier for children (and parents).

Once the homework starts rolling in, the library has print and electronic resources to help your students in K through 12 as well as those in college.  In addition to books and print reference items, we have a number of electronic databases that can be useful in doing class projects and research papers.

For kids who aren't old enough to start school, we have library programs to introduce them to the practice of reading.  Our Storytime program at 10 a.m. on Wednesdays is directed toward preschool-aged children to get them in the habit of reading, and our Baby Steps program on Thursdays at 10:30 is geared to get children up to 24 months comfortable in the library setting with songs and activities.

No matter your age and where you're at in your education, the library has the resources, programs, and staff to help you on your way to school success!  Stop, call, or e-mail to find out what we can do for you!

With wishes for a good school year from the perch.