The library is an often underrated place of opportunities. It is a safe haven of friendly faces, stories, and getting lost in the pages of a book… but it has become so much more. The library card unlocks not only a journey of learning, but it is a map of fun! It is free and the benefits seem to be unending.
With a library card this mom is able to save money, to meet new people, and to find new and interesting things to do with my kids. It provides a mutual interest to build on as a family as well. The kids are provided a safe place to hangout, friends, learning activities, and fun. While I, as the parent, can stand tall knowing I am also helping with literacy, social skills, responsibility, and more life long things the kids need.
Library Programs
Personally, my family finds the most enjoyment out of the programs that allow us to get out of the house. While writing this, I am sitting on the lawn outside the Bettendorf Public Library listening to a 10 of Soul concert, watching my kids dance and play catch while I steal some relaxing writing time. My 9 year old son found enjoyment in the After School Kids Lab all school year. Wednesdays for an hour they did STEM activities and hung out. This summer he is looking forward to Lego time and Pokemon Go meetups the library holds. My two daughters enjoy Toddler Time and Sunshine and Stories where groups their age dance, sing, practice yoga poses, and get to listen to books read by a librarian..and of course bubbles at the end of each session!
Gone are the old notions of the library where no fun is allowed and the librarians are mean and only out to yell ‘shh’ at you. Now the public library is inviting and full of opportunities for all stages and walks of life!
Summer Reading Programs in the QCA
Some of the other things the libraries are offering is the Summer Reading Programs for kids, teens, and adults with prizes and incentives for reading and staying active. They are offering the Thursday Concert Series in Bettendorf, movies and popcorn in upstairs meeting rooms, classes on animals/plants, and also the opportunity to learn different crafts. A library card gives access to free media, podcasts, music, magazines, eBooks, and even more. Check out a family pass to go to a museum or outing for free, such as the Niabi Zoo or the Figge Museum for 2 adults and the kids. This is an opportunity to add some excitement into those summer days and make the memories that could cost a small fortune, all for free.
The library offers the perfect ways to live it up, to introduce yourself and the kids to fun and engaging learning. It is time to lose the old school idea of a stuffy building with boring books where you can not make a peep, the library is for ALL, and I hope more and more people start to realize the importance these staples that libraries are, can have on our lives and the community.
Visit Davenport Public Library online to check out all the programs and perks available; and Bettendorf Public Library.
Also, check out the Bettendorf Public Library Ambassadors!
