Social Library, Volume 164
We're sharing more innovative programming ideas in this latest Social Library edition, from the robust offerings in a virtual Fandom Fest, to a fun Bingo card celebrating Family History Month, and from yoga in the grass, to community conversations in a new facilitated dialogue series. If you'd like your library to be featured in an upcoming edition of the Social Library, let us know via [email protected] or find us on Facebook.
- Lee County Library System in Florida reached out to share the multitude of ways they're using social media to extend their programming and connect with the community. With Fandom Fest 2020, they've transformed what's usually a one-day in person event to a month-long virtual celebration! "Fandom Fest is a celebration of fandoms and geek culture! Special activities include: reading challenges, trivia, a costume contest, art exhibit, special storytimes, cosplay presentations, virtual escape rooms, crafts and prizes." Following a Fandom Fest Kick Off, each week in October they explored a new fandom theme—Asian & Pop Culture, Space, Sword & Sorcery, and Superheroes & Villains—and the library encouraged submissions for the costume contests and art gallery on a platform that allows viewers to both upload their entry, and to browse other entries. They use the library's YouTube channel to host fantastic Fandom Fest videos, including instructions for the Grab and Go Fandom Fest Crafts. While you're there, check out all the other great videos on YouTube, including their Stay at Home Storytimes and the outstanding Tales from Beyond the Stacks video, with book recommendations and more from a spooky yet poetic vampire!
Sussex County Library System in New Jersey hosted caught our eye with their Outdoor Yoga in the Grass. "Mother Nature has played a huge role in the creation of al fresco "studio" spaces, so let’s connect again outside. Join Alissa Okrent for a 45-minute yoga session in the grass at Main Library. Dress in layers, bring a mat and water bottle, and you’re all set. Meet in the grass across from the side door entrance starting 15 minutes before class. Don’t forget your mask, and don’t forget to make an appointment on Picktime if you’d like to visit inside the library after the session."
- Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh and Free Library of Philadelphia recently launched Hear Me Out, "a digital, facilitated dialogue series that connects Pennsylvanians to each other through brave and authentic conversations." The first session in the series was, "Does My Vote Count?" exploring participant's relationships with voting in light of the upcoming election. "In partnership with libraries across the state, patrons from Philadelphia and partner libraries will join together in regular dialogues that focus on sharing and uplifting lived experiences on urgent public questions." The new program was featured in a local news story, and both libraries used Facebook posts to link to blog posts for Pittsburgh and Philadelphia communities.
- Dickinson County Library in Michigan is helping families have fun and stay active with a video of Glow Stick Dancing. "We have a super fun #WellnessWednesday to share with you this week, as a few of your favorite librarians volunteered to do glow stick dancing! This is a great activity to do with your family--the colors, movement, and music release endorphins and promote well-being. It's a fantastic stress reliever!"
- Linton Public Library in Indiana shared a Family History Bingo card as part of their Family History Month celebrations. "Let's get all the generations talking about their family histories! The kids might learn a thing or two about their parents, grandparents, aunts & uncles! Have fun as you complete our cool BINGO card! (The prize is discovering how interesting your family's history is in the process!)"