By Sherry Feeser, Youth Services Coordinator, Adams County Library System.
The libraries of the Adams County Library System (ACLS) offer many opportunities for parents and caregivers to engage their children and teens in library activities.
For the youngest children, a goal is to read, sing, talk, write, and play every day.
Many libraries offer baby and toddler storytimes, preschool storytimes as well as Learn and Play storytimes. The goal of each of these storytimes is to get children excited about books. We do this by including songs and rhymes into our storytimes enhancing them with shaky eggs and scarves and parachute play. After each storytime session children have the opportunity to play and interact with games and toys while adults have time to share and interact together as well. Many play groups and friendships have formed in storytime rooms around the county.
For elementary age children there are many great programs. Book groups for children of all ages promote a love for books and the courage to explore genres and topics they would not normally choose. Through these discussions children learn and make new friends. All libraries in ACLS now offer STEAM programs. Children’s love and interest in Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math are allowed to grow with these hands-on activities. Some of the topics we have covered in ACLS include Robotics, Forensics, Acrylic painting, electricity and circuits as well as building challenges. These programs enhance what children are learning in school and spark a love for learning and discovering.
For Teens ACLS offers a variety of different opportunities. Several libraries offer book groups for teens, giving them a place to talk about the books they love and voice their opinions on the books that are chosen. Several libraries have Teen Advisory Boards (TAB). TAB groups meet monthly to discuss ways to make the library a better place for teens and discuss programming ideas for teens.
By allowing teens to voice their opinions on what they think should be in the library and what programs should be held they feel ownership and a sense of belonging at the library. STEAM programs are offered for teens, enriching their interest in Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math. Several libraries in the county have designated spaces for teens. These spaces offer a place for teens to work on projects together or to just meet in a safe space. Many of these spaces have games and activities for teens to use while in the library.
ACLS is not just a place to come for books and information. ACLS is a community space where people come together for a common purpose, which is to enjoy an activity. This activity could be a storytime, a book group, a gaming night, a craft night or STEAM event. By bringing individuals together in our community we are developing positive relationships and giving members of our community a sense of belonging. Isn’t that what we all really want? To have a place where we all feel welcome, a place we all feel like we belong. Let ACLS be that place for you.
Please visit our website at www.adamslibrary.org and click on our events tab to see where you “fit in” at Adams County Library System.