Recap of Recaps: July 31–August 6

Submitted by Joanie Goforth

Here are a few recaps from some wonderful events that took place systemwide between July 31–August 6. 

Library Play Day at Hampton Park Library

"We had regular patrons along with some new families who came in today for Library Play Day. Kayla put together a slideshow that highlighted the wordless picture book, Pool by JiHyeon Lee, as well as some of our upcoming programs for the Fall. Our families enjoyed a pool-inspired craft, some water and bead play at the sensory table, building with Duplos, sensory lava floor tiles, a large floor puzzle and some magnetic gears on the easel. They were all very happy and grateful for a fun place to hang out and socialize together.” –hosted by LeAnne Craig

Outreach Visit to Head Start Open House 

“Katie and I set up a table and introduced FCPL to over 25 families, some of whom signed up for a new library card and checked out bilingual books for their children. They seemed very excited about the museum and park passes and a couple of them mentioned that they had heard an ad about the library passes on a local Hispanic radio station. One of the most valuable interactions that we had was with Ms. Martita, a sweet Colombian lady who works there as a janitor. She shared with me that she has a Master's degree in psychology but has two big barriers in this country: digital literacy and the English language. She was very excited to check out a book that will help her study for her citizenship test and grabbed several informational bookmarks to share with her friends.” -contributed by Kandy de Martin

Conversational English at Post Road Library

“We had two new faces for Conversational English practice today, Noa from France and Jacob from Colombia. Both have been in America for about a month now. Our main topic was work. I learned that in Colombia the retirement age is typically 65, while in France it is about 64, but there is legislation for it to be lowered to 60. Noa is currently studying to be a doctor, while Jacob is working as a delivery driver and hopes to one day own his own business. They both like how easy it is to find jobs in America, even if they're mostly part-time or entry level.” –hosted by Ashley Mason

Sharon Forks Writers' Group at Sharon Forks Library

"We had a large turnout this month, even with two last minute cancellations. Our submissions were: a rewrite on a very dark thriller, a chapter in a middle grade ghost story, the first half of a short story or novella, a paranormal romance chapter, a picture book and an introduction for a memoir. A few newcomers offered comments on the submissions and even editing advice. Although we didn't have time for questions afterward, the newcomers gave the program positive comments.” –hosted by Alicia Cavitt

Just Dig It - Vegetable Gardening with the Master Gardeners at Cumming Library

“We had a fantastic turnout for our first program in the fall vegetable gardening series! Jason of the Master Gardeners joined us to talk about soil components, such as minerals, air, water, and organic materials. He discussed the structure of soil, which is dynamic and can be improved or damaged. He mentioned methods of improving the soil, which include making sure it is thriving with organisms and the correct nutrients, checking nutrients with a soil test, and composting. Patrons interacted throughout the program with wonderful stories, tips, methods, and questions.” –hosted by Brianna Schantz

Just Dig It! attendees learn about soil health