Buckle up for spring and summer – there’s so much to do for free at The Library!
Have you heard Ernie Bedell’s family story? He’ll talk about it at 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 16, in the Library Center auditorium. Using his book “Generation B Music & Melodies,” Bedell tells the story of this five-generation Black musical family that has written, performed and sold recordings throughout the region and the U.S. Bedell highlights the Bedells’ contributions and those of other Black musicians. Books will be available for purchase and signing.
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In honor of Juneteenth, take a cultural tour of the African American community. Beginning June 3-18, pick up an “I Too Am America” passport at any library or Barnes & Noble and explore an African American timeline history and learn about contributions that were made while striving toward freedom.
For details call the Springfield Greene County Park Board’s Timmons Hall at 417-512-6070. Presented in partnership with the NAACP Springfield Chapter, Community Partnership of the Ozarks, the City of Springfield and the Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau.
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Kids and teens can earn cool rewards in the Library’s Summer Reading Program June 1-Aug. 5. The theme “All Together Now” features a game board so kids can keep track of their reading minutes and activities as they earn rewards. Best of all, summer reading helps kids build reading skills.
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Beginning June 1, pick up a game board at any library branch or the Mobile Library, or log on to thelibrary.org/summerreading and follow the links to register for the reading program that fits you. Start logging reading minutes and complete the activities to earn a Fresh Start Fine Waiver Card, a free book and Summer Youth Passport. End-of-summer drawings offer book bags, coupons for free books and gift cards. Adult readers are entered into gift drawings, too.
Everyone can attend all the crazy, free shows with magicians, musicians and mad scientists at the libraries throughout summer. And visit area attractions for tours and stories during Fantastic Fridays. Visit thelibrary.org/programs, or see Bookends for the schedule. The Summer Reading Program is funded by the Friends of the Library.
Kathleen O’Dell is community relations director of the Springfield-Greene County Library District. She can be reached at kathleeno@thelibrary.org.
