Free books for kids (that they get to keep- no fines, no need to return)
Details: The library currently has a program called “Reading Pays” for kids grades 2 to 5; if they stop by the library, they can get a free book (while supplies last, and one per family). They have a choice of Bink and Gollie, or The Magician’s Elephant– both by author Kate DiCamillo, who will also be speaking at Central Library on October 25 at 11 a.m. (P.S., she is a fairly “big-deal” kids author)
We also have a similar program for teens (grades 6 to 12) called “Read it Forward;” they can get a free copy of Beowulf or Romeo and Juliet, both adapted into graphic novels by Gareth Hinds, who will be at Central Library on November 6, at 7:00 p.m. (While supplies last, and one per family)
Free concerts at the Central library downtown
Details: It requires going downtown, but there are some pretty good (and FREE) concerts coming up that I wanted to mention. October 16, at 7 pm, there is a Johnny Cash tribute band (Bill Forness and One More Round); November 21, there is a folk-rock group called The Union Electric; and December 18 they will have the Latin stylings of Javier Mendoza. These are all free concerts, and just a reminder- the library has a FREE parking lot at Olive and 15th street (you may have to get a token for the gate from library staff when you leave, or it may be up since these are big events. This parking lot is free and open ANY TIME the Central library is open).
Yoga on Saturdays
Details: On Saturdays at the Machacek branch, from 1:30 pm to 2:45 pm, there is a free yoga class, hosted by Amy Raymond. It is not an official library program, therefore we can’t advertise it on our calendars, but it’s a great idea and it’s free and no-pressure. (So I’m trying to get the word out!) No sign-up needed or commitment required. It’s not a huge class, but there are adults of a variety of ages, and they do basic, beginner’s yoga, with the goal of advancing over time. Amy just asks that those who want to take part bring their own mat and water.