The Bookmark: The Summer Show Goes On

By JIMMY BASS, Coweta Public Library System Director

As I sit down to write this, the heat has finally made its presence known here in Coweta County.

Here at Coweta Libraries, we have been on fire since the end of May when our summer programming and reading contest began with a mighty boom. We have already hit our participation number for last year, but have plenty more prizes and fun activities planned. So, if you have not signed you or your children up, it is not too late. 

The show goes on at all libraries in July as we offer over 125 programs while bringing in the most professional library entertainers working today. Please allow me to give you some examples. Our staff-created and led programs include STEM and STEAM crafts, Legos, Trivia, Bilingual Story Time, World Adventures, Family Bingo Zone, Colors of Us Art Club, and so much more! 

To see dates and times for all events go to our website at www.cowetapubliclibrary.org. Also, we bring in the big guns for July special programs as local and nationally known magician Ken Scott brings his special brand of family entertainment to our Central and Powell branches. In addition, we welcome the always timely drummer, Dave Holland; the enlightening theater of Mr. Damon’s Shadow Puppets, and those swaying ladies known as Mahealani’s Polynesian Dancers.  

Finally, we celebrate another great summer with our Finale party at the Central Library on July 22. Beginning at 10 a.m., the finale will feature performers, music, food, crafts, games, and our own Coweta Recreation Department will be there with their own fun games and challenges. The party will go on until 2p.m. so come early and hang out! 

With the closing of summer programming, I want all parents of young ones from kindergarten on down to know that we will be kicking off another session of the very popular 1000 Books B4 Kindergarten. Many of our young library users and their families have already participated in past sessions but a recent grant is allowing us to reach deeper and bigger. Be on the lookout for information for this great opportunity to read as a family while setting up your child for academic success and good fun. We hope to see you lots in July and beyond!!

Jimmy Bass is director of the Coweta Public Library System. He also plays a mean guitar and sings at local venues.