Library Happenings by Julie Jarman

September is here again. School is back in session upending the daily routine. More hectic mornings for many parents, loved ones, children, teachers and faculty members as everyone tries to beat the clock to get to their destination on time. Please drive carefully as we all navigate this transition. Patience with the routine, on the roads and in the classroom are much needed this month. When my girls were in school, it felt like my life speeded up dramatically trying to go through all the hoops every morning the first few weeks.

The colors of fall is awe inspiring. Orange, yellow and reds will soon dominate the landscape. As e all return to this busy time, it might also be time to get a library card if you have not already done so. We offer books, movies, e-books, and audio books here in our collection. If we do not have something you want, chances are we can borrow it from another library. City residents support the library with their taxes and are entitled to a library card. Those who live outside city limits but reside in the Staunton School District can obtain a card for $35 a year. This amount is equal to the amount city residents pay in taxes. It may seem like quite a bit till you remember a brand new hard back cover book costs at least $35 at the local book store now. This card will give you access to a million items in the Illinois Heartland Library System. A valid library card also entitles you to visit all the other 400 plus libraries in the system to browse their shelves too. Stop by the library with a photo I.D. and a piece of mail showing your residency soon.

The Cards for Kids program set forth by the Illinois General Assembly, also entitles library cards to school students who live in the school district but outside city limit. The ages are from Kindergarten up to grade 12 if your family qualifies for the discounted lunch program. Please stop by the school and pick up the required paperwork to bring to the library. Once we have the school information, a photo ID and proof of address, we can make a card for the student.

This was designed as a way to get books to every child who wants to read. The library also has the free little library outside the Pearl Street entrance for anyone who needs a book and a free cart in the main street entrance to share with everyone there as well.

September also brings back Storytime in the Children's Library. It will be held every first and third Thursday of the month during the school year with the exception of major holidays.

The first story time of this school year was:

On thursday, September 7, which Featured The Search for the Giant Artic Jellyfish by Chloe Savage with an art activity. Children three years of age and up were welcome.

Life is full of fun as the fall season begins with so many activities and wonderful colors in our midst.

Stay tuned for the Library Crawl in October. The details will be coming soon for this fun event.

Check us out on our facebook page, email us at [email protected] or call us at 618-635-3852. See you all at the library one day soon.