Summer’s over, but library programs continue for all ages
By Carole Kelly
Programs and activities to attract all ages to the library are discussed by Jami Pittman, Clinton-Quisenberry Library branch manager, and Anne Sanders, Jackson Hinds Library System program and partnership coordinator. They are shown in the Giraffe Room.
The Friends of the Clinton-Quisenberry Library and the staff welcome everyone to the book sale Friday and Saturday, August 4 and 5, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. New titles have been donated, including a number of the ever-popular Danielle Steele books, many in large print.
Donations from home libraries enhance the sales for shoppers, with current donations limited to fiction and children’s books. The Friends say a bit of an overload of non-fiction titles has contributed to crowded shelves in the book sale space.
Branch manager Jami Pittman is encouraging everyone to claim a library card and take advantage of all the library has to offer. Those who want to help out at the library are asked to stop by and fill out a volunteer application.
“We are accepting volunteer applications for a variety of duties, such as assisting in programs, Friends of the Library efforts and research opportunities,” said Pittman.
From cooking classes and comic book costume events to new programs and regular story hours, the Quisenberry Library is an action site for all ages.
Wednesdays at the library are brightened with story time presentations for eager young patrons. Toddler ages are invited from 10 to 11 a.m., and lower elementary ages have their time from 11 a.m. to noon.
Stories followed by activities contribute to making the library a happy place for the younger set, with the goal of having them become lifetime library patrons.
A story time for upper elementary ages is proposed for the near future.
“Three different ages, three story times, with activities following,” says Pittman. “It’s our goal to have not only the young ones enjoy the library, but for adults to realize the value and variety offered at the library.”
“We are reaching out to all school districts to share our children and teen programming,” continued Pittman. “We want everyone to be aware that the library wants to share educational enhancements for all ages in our community.”
Two new programs available are tutor.com (over 3,000 expert tutors in over 250 subjects) and Mango Foreign Languages, defined as an effective language-learning methodology. Also available is Freegal, a word used by developer Library Ideas, meaning “free and legal” music. An ACT test prep can be accessed at no charge, as well.
Residents of Brookdale Clinton Assisted Living will be welcomed for activities on August 14 and 28 at 1:30 p.m.
Pictured (l to r) are Clinton-Quisenberry library staff members Jason Sulkers, Jami Pittman and Jennifer Burge. Not pictured is Wesley Cooper.
Other events include Paint with Bob Ross on Tuesdays from 5 to 5:45 p.m., and Dungeons & Dragons, the fantasy tabletop role-playing game, on Saturdays from 1 to 4:30 p.m.
Also on Saturdays, from 10 a.m. until noon, the library offers Mommy and Me Tea and Dad and a Donut.
For relaxed fun, there’s nothing like the ever-popular bingo every other Monday at 10 a.m.
Plans are being finalized for the library in the next two months to partner with multiple vendors to hold a comic book costume convention for children and adults.
“We want to thank our City officials and the Public Works Department for the work they do in helping the library be the best for all our citizens,” said Pittman.
Quisenberry library staff includes Jami Pittman, branch manager; Wesley Cooper, professional assistant; Jennifer Burge, circulation assistant; and Jason Sulkers, programs, puzzles and reference. Those who are not library card holder are encouraged to check with any of the staff and sign up.
In addition to serving as branch manager, Pittman has a specialized focus on teenage to college ages. Also factoring into his schedule, he and his wife Kristen and big sister Allison have welcomed a new library patron into the family, Evelyn Ann Pittman, born June 19, weighing 6 pounds, 14 ounces.
For questions or further details on any of the programs, call the library at 601-924-5684, or stop by at 605 East Northside Drive. The library is open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
