More than just books – Lockport Union-Sun & Journal

Times change, and public libraries are changing with them. Gone are the days when libraries were simply places to borrow books. Today’s libraries offer an array of services — from access to the Internet, computer classes, children’s programming and even healthy eating workshops.

The Lockport Public Library has had a long history of offering children programming throughout the year. Some of these activities include the summer reading program, themed story times, arts and crafts and educational demonstrations, such as the visiting Buffalo Zoomobile.

In recent years, the library has expanded its programming to include older children, from “tweens” to teens.

“Some of our kids have been growing up, and then where do they go?” Beverly Federspiel, Lockport Library director, said. “So why not do some ‘tween’ or teen programming?”

For this older group, the library offers a fun interactive book club that allows participants to not only read and discuss the book, but to play related games, complete book challenges, watch movies and win prizes. In addition to their many programs, the library also gives teens the opportunity to participate in “Bodies, Books and Brains,” which incorporates reading with yoga.

“We have this great reputation for children, we were starting to dabble a little bit in the teens, and then we thought, ‘what about the adults?’” Federspiel said. “I just thought that there are a lot of things going on out there that maybe our community would like to be involved with, and why not bring them to the library?”

So the library began an adult program that included book discussions, educational presentations, genealogy, mental health training, arts and crafts, and the annual “One Book One County” event.

One Book One County is an annual event where libraries across the county read the same book. This year’s selection is “Twain’s End” by Lynn Cullen. Over the course of about a month, each library holds its own discussions about the selection. On Oct. 25, the author will be at the Lockport library for a discussion and book signing. The library will also host Mark Twain impersonator Mike Randall on Oct. 4, to present a one-hour version of his critically acclaimed solo show.

In addition to hosting its own programs, the library also works with other organizations to offer free events.

“As long the program is free and open to the public, we try to support it,” Federspiel said.

This Wednesday, from 2 to 3 p.m., Cornell Cooperative Extension will be present an “Eat Healthy Lockport” program with a dietitian who will explain the concepts of a healthy lifestyle, tips on appropriate food portions, how to use nutrition facts labels and a mock grocery store tour and fun food purchasing.

The library has a complete up-to-date listing of all its offerings at lockportlibrary.org.

from myhealtyze http://www.myhealtyze.tk/more-than-just-books-lockport-union-sun-journal/