Social Library, Volume 93
Jennifer Peterson
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10 October 2017
This week's edition of our Social Library series represents a sampling of some of the exceptionally innovative programs, events, and news from the libraries we follow on Facebook. Whether picking up on the latest craze, or reaching unlikely patrons with new community partnerships, these libraries are definitely thinking outside the box! If you'd like to see your library featured in a Social Library edition, please let us know via [email protected] or find us on Facebook.
- In case you haven't heard, there's a growing fascination for painted rocks out there! N. P. Sims Library in Texas posted this colorful rock photo above to announce their new Reading Rock program. Young patrons are invited to check out a book, along with its matching rock, and then hide the rock around town for another child to find and return to the library (there's a "please return to the library" message on the back of each rock). For each rock returned to the library, there's a prize! One of the comments in the Facebook thread suggests hosting a book-themed rock painting contest—we love that idea too!
- Mid-Continent Public Library in Missouri has launched the World of Chocolate series, as we learned from a visit from the local news. The series will be "exploring one of the tastiest worlds of all—the world of chocolate. Come to the Library and learn what makes chocolate the world’s favorite treat from its role in history to how it’s made and sold." Events include a session on the business of chocolate, a number on the history of chocolate, and multiple chocolate classes and tastings.
- Jefferson County Public Library in Colorado made the Denver Post this week, with news of the launch of Stouts and Stories, Ales and Tales, "a six week celebration of Jefferson County beer and books with special events, tap parties, contests, prizes and a passport beer tour." Check out the full schedule of events and community partners here: jeffcolibrary.org/beer.
- Austin Public Library shared a 360° view of the new rooftop garden, which will open to the public at the end of the month at the Grand Opening of Austin's New Central Library. The garden includes a live oak tree, a habitat for butterflies, and solar panels which, in addition to those located on top of the main building, will power about a third of the building, according to a city blog post.
- Omaha Public Library in Nebraska caught our eye with a wonderful photo from a recent Out & About Storytime at a local senior care center. Other upcoming Out & About Storytimes will be hosted at a coffee shop, Goodwill, art museum, outdoor education center, and at Do Space, a local community makerspace.