Social Library, Volume 151
Jennifer Peterson
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18 February 2020
We continue our Social Library series with a fresh batch of inspiration from libraries on Facebook! From beer and short stories, to voting and citizen empowerment, and from an African American read-in, to a satellite library kiosk, and even a pajama party, these libraries are creating opportunities for communities to connect in deep and delightful ways. If you'd like to see your library featured in an upcoming edition of the Social Library, let us know via [email protected] or find us on Facebook.
- Bismarck Veterans Memorial Public Library in North Dakota announced Suds & Short Stories, a new short story discussion group held monthly, on Sunday afternoons, at Laughing Sun Brewing. "No registration necessary. Beverages and food available for purchase. Discussions will be led by Tayo Basquiat, an Associate Professor of Philosophy and Religion at Bismarck State College. Tayo has a MFA in creative writing from University of Wyoming." The library has provided a list of stories and authors being discussed, and local news, KFYR provided some nice coverage of the new opportunity for adults to connect through discussions of short reads.
- LeRoy Collins Leon County Public Library System in Florida hosted their African American Read-In in conjunction with Black History Month, promoting diversity in literature, and shining a light on African American authors. Check out all the fantastic photos posted by the library and to the Leon County page. Local news, The Famuan provided some wonderful coverage of the event, including step dance teams and African drumming. "More than 50 people were in attendance in the Leroy Collins Leon County Public Library to highlight the importance of African-American lives through a series of read-ins."
- Penn Yan Public Library in New York announced their new Citizen Empowerment Station display, themed to coincide with an upcoming voting program. "Come take a look at the books on offer, and take part in the first PYPL Straw Poll on voting rights." Here's the description for the voting program series, Citizenship in Action: Voting: "Ours is a government "of the people, by the people, and for the people." Live up to our founders’ expectations with this series of presentations that demonstrate how you can take an active role in our democracy. This month, we’ll take a look at voting—the right and privilege that undergirds so much of our system. Guests from the Yates County Board of Elections will be on hand to discuss their work, describe changes in the voting process, and even register you to vote. Get empowered to act! All are welcome to attend this free, informational event. -- A new year of civics events aims to lay out how ordinary citizens can take action in our democracy."
- Tacoma Public Library in Washington shared a fantastic video about their Eastside Microlibrary, located in the Eastside Community Center. The self-serve kiosk has increased the library's service hours by 112 hours per week and circulates over 500 materials, books, DVDs and museum passes. Additionally, an outreach librarian provides year-round programs like Family Storytimes, and they're working on developing programs for other ages too!
- Calgary Public Library in Canada hosted Family Day Pajama Party, as part of their system-wide Family Day. "Enjoy pop-up performances, board games, crafts, treats, a citywide storytime at 1:30 pm, and so much more!" At the Central Library's Pajama Party, attendees were treated to an all-day cartoon marathon, complete with a breakfast cereal buffet, Family Day Yoga, extra special storytimes (Vaudeville Magician Indigenous Storytime!), and a video game tournament (with prizes). "Don't forget to bring your favourite stuffed animals and slippers!"