In April, we celebrate National Library Week.
It’s a week to stop and consider how important libraries are to our schools and communities. In this digital age, it may be hard to understand why libraries are still important. Kids don’t need to head to the library to find books for research – they can just look up the information online. But libraries provide more than just books for research or resource information.
Libraries provide a sense of community by hosting story times, movie times, and different clubs such as a Pokémon Club or After School Clubs. Many libraries bring their programs out into the community too. Some take books into local agencies as a Little Free Library or into preschools for story times with the librarian. Some partner with local events or attractions for kids such as OK KIDS and the local recreation center for Story Times and activities.
Getting a library card can be a special moment for kids. It is something that belongs just to them, and it opens up a whole new world. But with that library card comes great responsibility. Kids can check out books and movies with their library card, but those books and movies come with due dates. If a book is returned damaged, it results in a fine. This makes a library card a great tool for teaching responsibility and accountability.
Libraries also encourage a lifetime of learning. Kids cannot step into a library without learning. If they’re playing a game on the library computer, they’re likely building their math or reading skills. If they are reading a picture book, they are learning new words and discovering new worlds. As they grow older, the library continues to be a place where they can learn. If they want to learn to crochet, they can find a book on crocheting or sometimes even attend a class at the library that teaches them how to crochet.
All of the Coffey County Libraries have different activities to keep your child learning. Not only do they provide weekly story times, but there are also typically fun activities to promote learning, discovery, and language building skills.
Check out your local library calendar for fun events each month!
Burlington Branch: Spring Break Painting; Make & Take Craft; Family Story Time
Gridley Branch: Fun Fridays activities; Spring Break games and crafts; Story Times
Lebo Branch: Crafterday Saturdays; Spring Break activities; Story Time with Ms. Bray
Leroy Branch: Friday Fun Days, Spring Break activities, Wednesday Teens
New Strawn Branch: Snack & Story Times; On-The-Go activities; Spring Break activities
Waverly: LEAP into Science; Story Times; Spring Break activities