Library Happenings by Julie Jarman

May Days are here again! It feels like a whole new world right now with infection rates down at least for the moment here in Macoupin County and mask wearing has become optional once again. Life is beginning to feel like a new kind of normal while we learn to adapt to the ever changing health and safety rules to avoid germs.

Life at the library also has gone through a few changes. For example, we are opening back up our bi-monthly program of story time every first and third Thursday of the month while school is in session.

The next story time session will be Thursday, May 5, at 4 p.m. in the children’s room. Waiting by Kevin Henkes will be the story. An art activity will follow soon after. Henkes is a wonderful award-winning children’s author and illustrator. The library owns several of his books. Elephant Parade, Lilly’s Big Day, Owen, and Kitten’s First Full Moon are just a few of his many works. It feels great to be able to do this for our community.

Check out our Story Book Walk out in the front hallway: The Monster at the End of this Book is on display.

While you are in the hallway, stop and take a look at our beautiful display case. It is always decorated with a lot of creative flair no matter the topic.

Our facebook page has the quote of the day and other information on it. It is updated at least three times a week for the most important news in library land.

Now that June is coming quickly around the corner, Summer Reading Program will be here before we know it. This year for the first time in two years, the library is offering indoor programming. Every Thursday in June will be Kid’s Day.

The theme of this year’s program is “Read off the Beaten Path” and the mascot for this event is the beautiful blue dragon from Dav Pilkey’s “A Friend for Dragon.”

There will be two classes every Thursday: 11 a.m. - Pre K 3 years old to students entering second grade this fall; 1 p.m. - for those entering third, fourth and fifth grade.

However, if those COVID infection numbers go back up again, the library reserves the right to make adjustments to its programming. We are hopeful, though, that everything will go as planned. Call if you have any questions about our programs, check outs, and e-books and online catalog at 618-635-3852. See you all at the library soon.