Happenings at the library

By Steph Stevens
Library Director
Sweet, sweet summertime is almost over, but we’re going out with a bang at the Lake Mills Public Library. But first let’s look back at the fantastic summer reading program we just wrapped up. The kids of our community really outdid themselves this year. Check out these numbers: 125 participants read over 80,000 minutes and checked out 2,900 books, 780 people attended 24 special activities or events, and the library had over 4,000 visitors. Those are some pretty amazing numbers, but even more important, is seeing children excited to read books. We couldn’t run such a successful program without such a supportive community. So give yourselves a clap on the back and make sure to thank the many local businesses for supporting our community library. Last, but not least, be sure to thank the library staff, who went above and beyond this year, while I was out on maternity leave. They are the pillars of this library and deserve all the praise.
Now, onto all the exciting activities we have planned for August. Let’s start with Reading Bingo. Reading Bingo works just like regular Bingo and the prize is a FREE book. Instead of numbers, the squares are filled with library-related activities, such as checkout a cookbook, read a book that’s won an award, checkout a DVD based on a book, and lots of other library fun. This program runs the full month of August and all ages are welcome to play, so stop in and pick up your Reading Bingo card today. One of the squares is to attend a library program and we have a handful to choose from in August.
The library has teamed up with ISU Extension to hold STEM programs every Wednesday in August at 2:30 p.m. We’ve already held our first one and the children were squealing with delight as they made oceans in a bottle and learned all about density. The fun doesn’t stop in the upcoming weeks, as we will be making morse code keychains and bracelets, straw roller coasters, symmetrical puzzles, and finish off with mystery STEM bag challenges. No registration required, plus snacks are included each week.
The library is thrilled to announce the return of Adult Craft Night. To celebrate we are bringing back our most popular craft to date—String Art. Join us Monday, Aug. 20, at 7 p.m. to create your very own string art masterpiece. This event is free, but registration is required, so stop in, call, or check out our event page on Facebook to sign up. All supplies will be provided, but don’t forget to bring a hammer. I can’t wait to see everyone’s creations.
Last, but certainly not least, we’ve decided to revel in the end of summer with root beer floats. Stop into the library Tuesday, Aug. 21, anytime from 1-6 p.m. for a free root beer float. We will also have special crafts and activities set up for the kids all day long.
Did you know the library offers interlibrary loans? That means if our library doesn’t have the book or movie you want, we can request it from another library in Iowa. The options are limitless. All you need is a library card.