Happenings at the Lake Mills Public Library

by Steph Stevens
Lake Mills Public Library Director
I’m baaaack. As many of you know, I’ve been off the past two months on maternity leave. I would like to give a big shout out to everyone who has sent well wishes and congratulations. They mean so much to my family and me. Most importantly, my staff has been outstanding while I’ve been way. I didn’t have to worry one bit about the library, because you guys are true rockstars. It has been great to experience time with my new son, but it’s time to get back into the swing of all things library. On that note, here’s my first column back-full of Summer Reading happenings for all ages.
Summer Reading is in full swing and has been off to a rockin’ start. We’ve already experienced a drumline, birds of prey, puppets, and a sleepover, but don’t worry, July is jam-packed with activities as well. Plus we’ve had almost 150 children sign-up and it’s not too late to get started. You can still stop in to the library and read those minutes through July 26 to earn prizes and complete the program.
To kick-off July we are excited to be showing the free movie “The Goonies” outdoors under the stars at Oakwood Park for the whole community. So grab your blanket or patio chair and join us at dusk Thursday, July 12, to start the ball rolling on a great weekend of July Jubilee activities. Bring your own snacks, but if you forget, we will have concessions available. The Lake Mills Vision Team has graciously donated money to buy a new projector and blow up screen which will measure 17 feet across, so everyone is sure to get a good seat. After this event, individuals or groups will also be able to check out the projector and screen so you can show a movie in your backyard anytime. Stop into the library to get more information.
The following week we will be featuring Chipped Inscriptions at the library Monday, July 16, and Tuesday, July 17, at 6 p.m. We haven’t picked out a design yet but it’s sure to be something fun. This event is full, but you can still stop in and get on the wait list. Can’t wait to paint with all the kids and check out all of their unique creations.
Miss Betty and Library Lambs will run every Wednesday at 10:15 a.m. through July 25 for all the littles in your life. Story Times include stories, music, activities, crafts, and snacks for the little ones. Plus, until the end of the summer, they will follow our Summer Reading theme of “Libraries Rock.” No registration required, so join us for an action-packed morning
Tuesdays at 1 p.m. we are once again featuring activity times for those aged four through 12. We have two great options left, including make your own instruments July 17, and last but certainly not least we will be having a color dance party, July 24. What’s a color dance party? We will be dancing away in the parking lot behind the library with a finale full of colored chalk (think a color run) to celebrate with, plus there might even be karaoke. No registration required; just show up ready to have fun.
Thursdays are for all the tweens and teens in your life. We have our final two events—the movie in the park July 12 and our finale with Chipped Inscriptions, July 19. There is still room to sign up for this event, plus snacks will be provided and we will be handing out our prizes including the grand prize of $50. You still have plenty of time to sign up for the young adult program and to turn in bookmarks for prizes.
We can’t forget the FINALE party for the children who have been reading all summer. Join us Thursday, July 26, at the Youth Center for a free meal at 5 p.m., then at 6 p.m. for Magician Jonathan May. Everyone is welcome and again no registration is required. Just come out and help us celebrate.
Did you know the library is run by a board of trustees? The board of trustees is the backbone of our organization and we are currently looking for a new trustee. The board of trustees is responsible for adopting library policies, overseeing the Director, deciding how the library budget is spent, and advocating for everything library. A few other things you need to know: our board of trustees meets monthly on the first Thursday, you must be a resident of the city, and terms are for six years. If you or someone you know is interested, stop into the library and we can discuss the details. The library needs YOU. LaRita Bakken. has served for many years and has always been a voice of reason, a staunch library advocate, helpful sounding board, willing volunteer, and a friendly face. The board and I will truly miss her, but know we will still see her at the library.