Now that our libraries are open again I decided to explore and see what's new. The Summer edition of Library Happenings is ready for you to pick up. I've included many of the listed programs in our Macaroni Kid Event Calendar to make them easy for you to find and register. This year's Summer Reading Challenge theme is Tails & Tales.
The libraries I visited were:
- Crofton
- Edgewater
- Eastport-Annapolis Neck
- Michael E. Busch Annapolis
Five Unexpected Things at the Library:
There were a few things I saw at the libraries that surprised me in a good way and I knew I had to share with you. I hope you will go out to the libraries and take a look for yourself. Tell them Macaroni Kid sent you.
- History Walk: In honor of the 100th Anniversary of the Anne Arundel County Library System the Edgewater and Eastport-Annapolis Neck libraries both had a History Walk: a row of informational signs explaining the history of libraries in our area through pictures and words.
- Free Activities: Crafts projects, coloring sheets, and themed bags for younger children through teenagers to take home and complete. I took a paper rose craft for my teen daughter that included supplies and instructions. For my 4 year old neighbor I picked up a cicada coloring sheet, a jelly fish craft, and an activity called Pack of Positivity. For mental Health Awareness month, several of the libraries were giving out mini totes bags filled with resources to learn about emotions and tools to help with stress and bring on calmness. I was so impressed with what the libraries put together and were giving away.
- Electric Car Charging Stations: The Busch Annapolis and Crofton libraries both had electric car charging stations. They are some of the first of many to be built in our area.
- Kindness Rocks Garden: The Eastport-Annapolis Neck library had a small established flower garden that you walk through to get to the front door. A sign in the garden says Kindness Rocks and in the past I've seen painted rocks in the garden for people to take. Looking for something to do this summer. Paint rocks and leave them by the sign.
- Giving Tree: Lastly, my favorite discovery was the Giving Tree at the Crofton Library. Children hung homemade drawings, bracelets, and crafts on the tree for others to take. Many of the items were in plastic bags so the objects would stay dry. I was really moved by the tree and items given.
Share what you like best about your favorite library on the Macaroni Kid Facebook page.
