It’s a new year, and we have several new programs at our libraries to expand your mind, help your children develop literacy skills, and bring out your inner techie.
In Simla, we are launching a Study Buddies program, which helps elementary-age students become better at school subjects by pairing them with teen mentors. Many libraries and schools across the country have helped students succeed by facilitating meetings between kids and teen mentors. Most libraries focus on helping kids develop their reading skills through programs like Study Buddies. The Simla Library is dedicated to helping kids improve in many different subjects. However, this program is particularly useful to children who struggle with basic reading and comprehension skills. Fill out an application form at the Simla Library to sign up for this 6-week program. The pairs will be matched and meet once per week.
At the Elizabeth Library, Wonderful Wednesdays are planned for the second Wednesday of every month at 3:30 p.m. The program provides a variety of after-school activities for elementary-aged children. February will concentrate on handmade Valentines with subsequent months featuring a science project using potatoes, how to interact with therapy dogs (featuring actual dogs!), and the language, food and customs of France.
Our new after-school book club in Elizabeth will meet on the third Wednesday of the month. We will feature a craft related to a particular historical period and snacks will be provided. Children are encouraged to share with the group books that they have read and would like to recommend. Students can enter their name in a drawing for every book they read and a prize will be given at the May meeting. Our first meeting on Jan. 16 will concentrate on colonial times and will include butter making.
And for the adults, Elizabeth staff will be holding open computer lab once a month on the third Thursday from 10:30 a.m.-noon. We will have our laptops set up or you can bring your own in. Staff will be on hand to help you figure out any problems that you might be having. We will also be able to help with downloading books to Nooks and Kindles and MP3 players or tablets.
At the Kiowa Library, Friday morning Building Readers story times continue to draw preschoolers to the library for literacy-building interactive time with Miss Denise. This spring the library will host a tea party for children. Attendees will be encouraged to dress up and will learn proper “tea time” etiquette. Watch for “Kids Rock” in the fall — a program on rock geology.
Kari May lives in Elizabeth and is the director of the Elbert County Library District. She can be contacted through the library at director@elbertcountylibrary.org. Visit the library at www.elbertcountylibrary.org.