By Kathryn Johnson
Fall is upon us and while our thoughts tend toward the year coming to an end, there are a lot of new beginnings taking place at the Allied Gardens/Benjamin Library! We are bringing back some favorite programs for youth and starting a new program inspired by STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math).
At the beginning of the month, we hosted our first Science Saturday. This drop-in program is geared toward children ages 5 and up and offers children the opportunity to spark their curiosity and learn about a science-related idea. In the coming weeks, we look forward to exploring circuits, roller-coaster engineering and the science of flight. This program takes place on alternating Saturdays including Sept. 17, Oct. 1, 15 and 29. Stop by between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. to enjoy that day’s activity. Please note that our popular Arts and Crafts program will continue on the opposite Saturdays.
The school year is getting back into swing and the students are coming back to the library. We are glad to have them back and are looking forward to hosting our Teen Scene program starting Wednesday, Sept. 28. The teen-friendly activities will include crafts, games, movies and more. Teens ages 12 and up are welcome to join us for this opportunity to unwind after school and make new friends. This program will take place on alternating Wednesdays from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m.
Baby Toddler Story Time is back! Little ones ages 0–3 and their caregivers will enjoy songs, rhymes and stories which develop and foster early literacy skills for young minds. After the program, caregivers can enjoy some socializing while the littles play and interact. This weekly program will start on Tuesday, Sept. 27 at 10 a.m. Please note that the library will be closed to the public during this event but attendees are welcome to check out materials after the story time. The library will continue to open at 11:30 a.m. on Tuesdays for the public.
Finally, we have the Open House and Book Sale happening on Saturday, Sept. 24 from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. This family-friendly event will include a bounce house, face painting, games, prizes and more! This fun-filled event is made possible by the amazing Friends of the Benjamin library. Additional sponsors include Allied Gardens Family Optometry and Brother’s Restaurant.
Prizes have been generously donated by several wonderful local businesses including: Brother’s Restaurant, Donut Panic, El Toro del Cerro, Fosters Freeze, a teeth whitening by Dr. Douglas Grosmark, Ideal Plumbing, K n’ B Wine Cellars, S3 Coffee, Superior Cuts Barbershop and Windmill Farms.
Last, but not least, our very own Allied Gardens Kiwanis club will be hosting a free hot dog lunch at noon. Please join us as we celebrate our community and your library!
—Kathryn Johnson is managing librarian at the Allied Gardens/Benjamin Branch Library. Reach her at [email protected].
