Library Happenings by Julie Jarman

The days of May have arrived. It is time for flowers, green lawns, and fresh air once again. Spring in full bloom is the best time of the year and life at the library is in full swing.

The library staff just put out the latest story in their permanent story book walk display cases out at the Water Tower Park. For those who enjoy Mo Willems, his book , Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus. It is the funniest tale yet produced by children's award winning author and illustrator Willems.

The story is about a pigeon who really wants to drive a bus even though he has no experience and no driver's license, plus he can't see the windshield given his small frame. The way the author highlights the pigeon's expressions throughout the story is hilarious that makes it such a beloved children's story.

Willems, is an American writer, illustrator, voice actor and animator known mostly for his children's books Knuffle Bunny, Elephant and Piggie, and Pigeon book series. He was born in Des Plains, Ill., and received his education at New York University. Two of his Knuffle Bunny books and Don't Let Pigeon Drive the Bus have each been awarded a Caldecott Honor Award over the years meaning it made the top five list in children's literature published the year after it was produced.

Staunton's Public Library owns a nice collection of his work. Stop by the park soon, read the story, and leave a review on the library's facebook page or at the circulation desk in the library. The story's humor and its beloved characters are irresistible.

With summer right around the corner, this is always a busy time for the library staff as we prepare for summer reading program or AKA SRP24. Every Thursday in June is Children's Day at the Staunton Public Library. Summer Reading Program sessions will be held at 3 p.m. every Thursday in June with Gary Naglich, Jo Nolan and the rest of the library assisting in various ways.

The theme is "Read, Renew and Repeat!" Story, art activity, games and attendance prizes will be awarded while supplies last throughout the SRP dates for those ages three and up. Registration is not required. It will be a great time to check out some books and movies for summer entertainment too.

The library has some great books but we also have audiobooks, access to e-books, movies for adults and children, reading kits to explore and a whole slew of games and activities at your fingertips to conquer while inside the library. Activities include magnetic blocks; magnet stations; brain teaser cards; floor puzzles; tool set; contraption blocks; circuit board; doll houses; puppet theatre; train table; car mat and board games for different ages. Reading kits and games can't be checked out to take home but they can be enjoyed while here. There is always something to do at the hometown library.

Stop by some day to get a library card. If the residence resides in city limits, a photo I.D. and proof of address, since residents' city taxes are already supporting the library is all that is required. For those that reside outside the city limits, to get a card, go to the nearest library closest to where you live. Please bring a photo I.D. and a piece of mail and the Staunton Public Library can assist in determining what library is best.

The Staunton non-resident fee is $35 a year, however, every library has a different price range. The library card provides the ability to visit other libraries in Staunton's library system and check out books with a Staunton card provided it's in good standings, such as no fines and not expired. Many get their card at their home town library but use it at the library next to their job place.

For example, if residing in Staunton but work in Maryville, get a card at the home library but use it at Maryville Library on lunch hour.

There are over 500 libraries in Staunton's system across the state now. It is easy, convenient and saves a ton of money by borrowing items instead of buying them. Life is fun at the Staunton Public Library and the staff encourage all to come enjoy everything it offers.

The library contact information is as follows: phone is (618)-635-3852; email is [email protected]; their Facebook page is librarypagestaunton.