Have You Met Your Library Lately?
If you have not visited any of the Jefferson County Library’s 10 branches lately, you may be in for quite a shock – but a pleasant one! These are definitely not your grandmothers’ libraries. Of course, the standard fare is still there – books, periodicals, reference materials, and computers. And most of you have probably known for quite some time that there are children’s story hours on a regular basis. What you may not know, however, is that your libraries have become a hub of activities that could literally keep someone busy, entertained, and educated every single month! Here is just a sampling of what you will now find at your library, making every penny of your tax dollar support well worth it!
Computer Classes
You have no excuse for remaining computer illiterate when there are free classes in virtually anything related to computer use. Consider all of these offerings:
- iPad Basics – Bring you iPad and learn absolutely everything that it can do for you
- Microsoft Word – Beginning, Intermediate and Advanced Classes as well as practice session
- Introduction to the Internet for you newbies out there
- Personal Security – How you can safely surf and shop online
- Excel Basics and Creating Pivot Tables
- Managing, Editing, and Posting Digital Photographs
- Using PowerPoint
- Email and Skype basics
- Using Windows 8
These classes are free, but you do have to register – get online, find out dates and times near you, register, and even set up to have a reminder sent to you!
Storytimes
Throughout the summer, there will be Storytime sessions for young children. These are offered during the day and evening, as well as on weekends and are divided by age groups. Sessions are a great time for parents and children to bond, while attending together, and even making a craft during some of the scheduled times. Details of each Storytime session are provided on the library website, so you can pick and choose those that are the best fit for your schedule!
Programs for Kids
Even if you have a family vacation planned, you obviously need more than that to keep your kids occupied during the summer months, and the library has taken a lot of that responsibility onto its shoulders. In addition to Storytimes, there are recurring activities throughout the summer months that will have your kids begging to go!
- How about reading with a dog? Yes, a real dog from Pet Partners Therapy Animals organization. They bring their furry friends in, and your child can sit and read a book to one of them. How cool is that?
- Saturday afternoon movies are great ideas, particularly when it is raining or when the family is just “shopped” and “chored” out! And they’re free!
- Surprise Sundays are afternoon sessions that feature a different activity, project or game each week.
- Lego Club – Yes, the libraries have huge supplies of Legos and sessions vary from free play to contests
- REaD Carpet Events: These events occur throughout the summer and feature reading and activities for kids and teens
- LibLabs: You may not know it, but your libraries have labs – labs for crafts, construction projects, and other messy, but fun activities. Children can make Roman arches and catapults or solve crimes through the use of forensics.
Programs for Teens
If you have a teen without a job or other activity for the summer, set him/her up with volunteering at the library. From reading to children to supervising craft activities and Lego building, there are great opportunities for teens to be service for the entire summer. There are other activities for teens too, however:
- Join the Lego Club for ages 11-18 and participate in complex and sophisticated projects
- How about a Friday night murder mystery lock-in? Use clues and forensics to solve crimes –
- For aspiring authors or for those students who simply want to improve their writing skills,
- A teen book club is a great way to read age-appropriate books and then discuss them with
- How about making Henna tattoos? You can design your own and plant them on your body –
- Look for the scheduled costume design contests at some branches. You will be provided sometimes you’ll be provided certain materials and given 1 ½ hours to create your costumes. The winners? A restaurant gift certificate!
Programs for Adults
Almost any interest or hobby can be satisfied at your local branch. Consider all of the following great programs:
Paper crafting
- Adult Book Club
- Language Exchange – pair up with a partner and converse in each other’s language
- Genealogy experts will provide sessions to provide help with your research
- How about some gardening classes from local experts?
- Financial and pre-retirement planning seminars are regularly scheduled and these are free!
- Legal self-help clinics can walk attendees through normal legal issues they may face in the course of a lifetime.
- Yarn and needle art groups meet regularly – great instruction and socialization
- Here’s a new one. How about taking an old T-shirt and turning it into a scarf or a bag? Yes, there really is a class for this!
Your library is a treasure trove of education and fun for any member of your family. Access the website, register for as many as you wish, and set up reminders so you won’t miss a one!