By Arianne Leigh

What better way to greet 2015 than by expressing our gratitude for a wonderful 2014! The Benjamin Branch Library is honored to be a part of the Allied Gardens community and we hope that your holiday plans included a stop at the library to attend one of our exciting programs or to check out a few of our entertaining movies or books.

The new year brings the promise of progress, renewal and growth both individually and as a community, and the Benjamin Branch would like the opportunity to contribute. As you aspire to more, you may be looking for information and inspiration. Begin with a search on our public computers and follow through by accessing the materials and resources of 35 branches plus the Central Library. Please make visiting the library a stop on your path to achieving your New Year’s resolutions.

We are planning wonderful things for 2015 and we look forward to seeing you at the library!

Tuesday, March 3, 2 p.m.: “Genealogy: Be an Ancestor Detective” – March 7 is Genealogy Day! Get to know your family tree. Have you always wondered what information is available on the Internet about your family? How much do you really know about your family? Now is the time to find the answers to questions about your ancestors: where they lived, how they lived, how they came to the U.S. and lots more. Knowing your ancestors is knowing yourself. The class will cover how and where to begin (always with yourself!). One warning should be given to prospective class members: This is a very addictive hobby and, once started, the need to know more grows and grows.

Mondays, Through April 13: AARP Free Tax Preparation. Free tax help for low- and moderate-income taxpayers, especially those 60 and older. Please call 619-241-2170 for more information.

Wednesday, Feb. 25, 1 p.m.: Benjamin Friends of the Library meeting. Come join the Friends and support the library! Memberships start at $5 and new members are always welcome.

Ongoing programs for adults include:

Zumba, Wednesdays at 4:30 p.m.

Hatha Yoga, Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m.

Fitness Fun for Older Adults, Fridays at 11:15 a.m.

Healthy Back Yoga, first and third Saturdays at 1 p.m.

Book Club, second Tuesdays at 1 p.m.

Mystery Class, Thursdays at 1 p.m.

Benjamin Friends of the Library, fourth Wednesdays at 1 p.m.

Special presentation for children:

“Backyard Bandits: Raccoons, Opossums & Skunks!” Fun facts along with songs, puppets, real pelts, replicated skulls, scats, tracks and taxidermy specimens with Linda Hawley, Ed.M. of “Nature Adventures!” and Mission Trails Regional Park on Friday, Feb. 20 at 3 p.m.

Ongoing children’s programs:

Brilliant Babies Storytime (recommended for 18 months and younger): Tuesdays at noon.

Toddler/Preschool Storytime (ages 2 – 5 years): Thursdays at 10:30 a.m.

Kids’ Yoga (ages 2 – 8 years): Thursdays at 3:30 p.m.

—Arianne Leigh is branch manager of the Allied Gardens/ Benjamin Branch Library.