What's Happening at the Library

Greetings Library Friends,
Fall is upon us and there are more than a few exciting things happening at the Soldiers Grove Library!
Below is a message from your beloved library director for the past 28 years!
*Dear Friends, *
*With this newsletter I’m passing on the director’s cap to Sarah DiPadova, a true gem who will lead the Soldiers Grove Library on to a bright future. I have had a wonderful 28 years, and it’s been a privilege to share in the growth and blossoming of the library. We are at a pivotal moment in the history of all things right now, but I believe that libraries will always be at the heart of a community, because they stand for connection; connecting people with each other and now, with the whole, virtual world. We will meet again together in person unafraid and use the internet as a tool. And libraries will continue to meet people’s need for leisure and learning, adapting to whatever the future holds. With that, I give you a fond farewell, with much gratitude and love. ~Cele*
And a message from your new director…I am incredibly honored and excited to be stepping into the role of director of this lovely little library. I look forward to carrying on the wonderful traditions of great programming and service to this amazing community. Although these times have prevented us from being spontaneous and enjoying our neighbors’ company as we have in the past, we can look forward to the moments we can share together in many unique ways. In this newsletter are the various programs that will be offered this Fall and into the future:
*Adult Programming*
*Virtual Book Club:* Join us for a virtual book club discussion on Wednesday, October 21st at 6:30 p.m. The first book will be, fittingly, *The Library Book* <www.goodreads.com/book/show/39507318-the-library-book> by Susan Orlean and several copies will be available at the library by mid-September to those interested. Please contact Sarah by phone (608) 624-5815 or email ( sdipadova@swls.org) to sign up.
*Family/Children’s Programming:*
*Family-time at the library:* Beginning in September, Tuesday mornings from 10-noon will be exclusive to families with children who would like to come browse our children’s collection. Please call to reserve a time-slot so our library space doesn’t overflow and we can maintain safety for all.
*Storytime in the Courtyard: *Ms. Morgan will continue with storytime in the courtyard Thursday, Sept. 10th, 17th & 24th at 6:00 p.m. weather permitting. Please bring your chairs, blankets, and families and join us. Anyone who would like to read a story is welcome to be a guest reader (middle or high school students as well as adults).
*Monday Live Interactive Class: *Sponsored by the Southwest Library System, David Daniels of Colossal Fossils is offering a free, 16-week course that is just for libraries, their patrons, and schools. Each 1-hour program (one per week) is filmed live at the Colossal Fossils Downtown Museum (Wausau) and showcases its incredible collection of dinosaurs, Ice Age mammals, and anthropology exhibits
The first presentation will be on Zoom on Monday, September 7 (Labor Day) at 4:00 p.m., and then each Monday at the same time until December 21. Each 60-minute program includes a 45-minute presentation, followed by 15 minutes of question and answer time. Recordings of the videos will be available for two days after the live shows. The programs are tailored to interest 5 to 11 year-olds, but all ages are welcome.
To register for this exciting course contact the Gays Mills or Soldiers Grove Libraries by phone at 735-4331 or 624-5815; or email dgibbs@swls.org or sdipadova@swls.org. You can also come to both libraries to watch the live shows on our computers (except for the Labor Day show).
*Other Information:*
The library will be closed Saturday, September 5th through Monday, September 7th for Labor Day weekend. Regular hours have resumed and curbside is still available to everyone who wants to keep contact to a minimum!
*Website:* Please check out the library website <www.soldiersgrovelibrary.org/kidsandfamilies/> for the latest information including pre-recorded stories for children. This website was developed by Mike Lind and we are excited for the new look! Please check back often as some pages remain under development.
*Outside Wireless Connection:* Through a grant with the Southwest Library System, our library now has a greater range of coverage in the front of the building (the device is visible from the window in the upper part of the parking lot). So please feel free to use our WIFI connection to access the internet anytime you are near the front of the library building!
Please reach out with questions, suggestions, or concerns. I look forward to working with and getting to know each of you.
With gratitude, Sarah