Your
Library
Connection
In my February Your Library Connection I promised to
write my next article about services and programming available in other
libraries in Iowa towns with a population of 5000-7000.
You might be curious as to how I would get this information.
I e-mailed all the libraries in the state that fall in that 5000-7000
population range and asked them to let me know what programming they provide for
their patrons. I was amazed at some
of the answers and think you will be too! Cherokee,
Glenwood, Grimes, Manchester, Orange City, Pleasant Hill, and Shenandoah
responded with some unique and creative ways that they are bringing literature,
arts, recreation, and culture to their patrons.
I will take you on a brief programming tour in each of the
main areas…children’s, young adult, and adult in a dynamic library
functioning as the center of the community.
Children’s Area:
During the summer, there are many things going on for kids related to the
summer reading program. Kids are
encouraged to read and there are several special programs for students as well
as prizes and other incentives.
During other seasons of the year, there are craft classes
including different art mediums once a month.
Storytime is offered for preschoolers and lower elementary students once
a week. There is an after-school
book discussion group for upper elementary students. Other special programs throughout the year include a Date
with Dad activity in February, a magic show, and showings of children/family
movies.
Young Adult Area:
During the summer, there is a young adult reading program.
Several of the books recommended are also on the adult reading list so
that the young adult and adult groups can discuss these together.
In fall, winter, and spring, the young adult advisory committee recommends books for purchase, encourages friends to enter poems in their poetry contest, and plans a Christmas program for the younger kids. A small group of the advisory committee works on a YA webpage for the library website.
Babysitting classes are offered twice a year for interested
kids. Special programs are a
Halloween Party, contests, and book talks.
Adult Area:
For the adults, I am going to start with winter activities.
During the winter, there is an adult reading program consisting of book
discussions, special programs, and incentives like reader’s journals or being
placed on a special e-mail list to be the first to know about events and new
books at the library.
During all seasons additional programming takes place.
There are basic computer classes available, scrapbooking sessions, travel
programs, brown bag lunches with book reviews, a volunteer recognition tea, and
educational movie showings/discussions.
These are programs that other libraries offer, most of which we cannot offer because of limitations in staffing and space. Wouldn’t you like to see programs like these offered at the Independence Public Library?
Home Pictures Donations Services
Calendar of Events Web
and Reference Resources
Kids'
Resources New
Books and Materials Online Catalog
Community Resources
Library Connections
Friends of the Library