I was so excited when my girls and I decided to visit the library. The children's section was large, bright and colorful. They even had a few birds. There were many paper mache projects on display. I was even more thrilled to find out about there stellar summer reading program. They offer storytimes twice a week and have a great incentive program (Dig into reading). We happened to go just after a farmer had brought in a cow for a presentation, but we were able to come back for the hour long storytime. I was shocked at how busy it was. I counted 100 people. The librarian was entertaining (you have to be to keep that many little ones engaged for so long). At the front of the room was a display of cow items, a typewriter, big books and little books all about the theme (cows). The librarian read from a variety of texts (fiction, non-fiction, jokes, poetry, etc). She read from 5 texts. The props made it a lot of fun. After stroytime we were all invited to another room that was set up with project spots for the craft potion. We made a foam cow, a headband and something else. The event was well organized. I felt like my daughters really got something out of it and that the activities were meaningful.
Luckily, we were able to return the following week. I planned to attend the am and pm sessions. During the AM session a zookeeper came in and mostly spoke about how the droughts are causing wild animals to come closer to cities and how that is not normal. She brought in a variety of pelts from animals that are likely to be found in the eastern part of the state. She talked about how to never approach wild animals. This was all done in a child friendly way. Again, there were over 100 guests. For the finale she brought in a live, talking raven. The childrens' squeals of delight were great! After lunch and a nap[ we returned for the PM session. Stroytime/crafts were centered around rocks. Again, there were many relevant items on display (and time for investigating the items). The same librarian again read from a variety of texts. Between texts she'd talk about or show the props. The crafts were again thoughtful and well organized. Each child received an envelope with all of their needed materials and was able to select a space to sit and work. They made an origami treasure box, necklace and sand painting.
It is obvious that the library has some generous donations and/or that the people who manage it take great pride in the building and programs.
The only suggestion I'd have is that they find a way to incorporate technology. With a room that big and full, it is hard to see the books (even the big ones). An ELMO type projector would allow everyone to see the illustrations and display items.
BRAVO Roswell Public Library on offering such a great program! read more