The hard-working, always enthusiastic staff at the library seems to exceed even the most grandiose expectations, as proven by the recent circulation numbers stemming from the library card initiative.
Record check-outs are occurring and more citizens than ever have and use library cards. In October, 33,425 materials were circulated, giving the month one of the highest levels recorded.
Equally impressive is the number of added library cards. In October alone, over 2,000 cards were issued, bringing the number of Carsonites with library cards to 32,318!
Most young patrons are extremely independent when it comes to using the library technology, but lately they have arrived with curious parents and grandparents in tow. The library staff takes every opportunity to give mini tours of the library, and often families leave with numerous books, CD's and DVD's and a library card for the adults as well.
The library card initiative continues, focusing on Eagle Valley Middle School and, in early 2011, Carson High School. Just imagine what the circulation numbers will look like in the coming year.
Book opportunities for the holiday
Books make perfect Christmas gifts and bring hours of enjoyment to the recipient. Two book sales allow shoppers opportunities to find new and used gift items, get a great start on holiday shopping and help our library purchase more materials for the collection.
Scholastic's Destination Book Fair: Read Around the World debuts in the library auditorium on Saturday, Dec. 4 and continues through Dec. 11. Open during regular library hours (10 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday-Thursday and 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday and Saturday) this sale focuses on books and gifts for children and teens, but also offers many items for adults as well. The proceeds from the book fair will directly benefit the youth services section of the library.
Once again, the Friends of the Library take their Bargain Book Sale to the Carson Mall. From 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Dec. 8-11, shoppers can find a wide array of books for incredibly low prices. Changing the location of the book sale has enabled the Friends to reach a wide audience and has enabled shoppers to frequent many of the shops in the mall and stop for a bite at one of several local eateries.
If you visit the library ... bring a toy
The library is acting as a location drop for two worthwhile organizations. Toys for Tots will be accepting unwrapped children's items for needy families. Those people shopping at the book fair might find an extra item or book that could be donated in order to make a youngster's holiday brighter. Food for Thought is accepting donations of nonperishable food items to fill backpacks of students for the holidays.
Finally, please return those overdue books, so someone else can enjoy them.