Learning and fun at Stanislaus County library programs

“Shush” no longer is the word of the day at Stanislaus County libraries.

Instead, it’s words like “learn,” “participate” and “fun” when the 13-branch system puts on its many special programs for children and adults. Yes, the libraries still are a place for quiet reading and reference, but they’re also places where people can join together for exercise, crafts, consumer information, storytelling and more.

Some programs are ongoing, others are special events and many are tucked away in meeting and community rooms. All are free and open to the public.

“The library’s mission is to foster the love of reading and open the door to knowledge,” said Susan Lilly, communications, marketing and fund development manager for the county library system. “Library programs offer learning opportunities for people of all ages. Programs also encourage further use of this wonderful community resource.”

Reaching kids and teens by getting them involved is among the programs’ hallmarks. “Children’s programs engage the children with either hands-on activities or audience participation. They aren’t just spectators,” Lilly said in an email interview. “They get to be part of the program, and that’s when the real learning takes place.”

Among the most popular kid-oriented events are Lego days, where children get to create their own “engineering masterpieces” and have them displayed at the library, Lilly said. Also well attended are the STEAM-oriented events (science, technology, engineering, arts and math), craft days, puppet shows and storytelling.

“Most events are generally well attended, particularly the children’s events. Some of the most anticipated events are the theme weeks, such as Star Wars Week, Shark Week, and Ninja Week,” she said. “These programs feature ongoing activities, where kids can drop in for a related craft, scavenger hunt or game.”

Adults also turn out for events, many also geared to learning.

“People are really interested in consumer information, so programs about couponing, estate planning and financial planning are popular. Family-oriented programs, such as the recent Star Wars activities, are well attended,” Lilly said. “Hands-on programs, like crafts and technology programs, are also a big draw (for adults). Technology programs are particularly popular after the holidays, when people are eager to learn about using new devices they’ve received as gifts.”

Many of the programs are sponsored by the Friends of the Library or the Stanislaus Library Foundation, Lilly said. Regular programs, such as weekly children’s story times, are funded through the library’s budget.

Each Monday, The Bee will offer a calendar of what’s going on that week at the 13 branches in the county:

Dance exercise

Ongoing

Weekly dance exercise classes conducted by certified instructors. Presented in partnership with Sierra Vista Child and Family Services. Participants must complete waiver. Adults only, no child care provided. 6 p.m. Mondays. Salida Library, 4835 Sisk Road. (209) 543-7353.

Knitting and crochet classes

Ongoing

Knitting and crocheting help for beginners or those needing help with a special project. 3 p.m. Wednesdays. Waterford Library, 324 E St. (209) 874-2191.

Teen craft fair sign-ups

Through May 30

Local teens may sign up to participate in the All-Teen Craft Fair scheduled for June 20. Deadline is May 30. Modesto Library, 1500 I St. (209). 558-7810.

Teen reading party

May 19

Unmasked Teen Summer Reading Party to kick off summer reading program. Button-making, edible medals and superhero bookmarks. 3 p.m. Hughson Library, 2412A Third St. (209) 883-2293.

Family dinner and movie night

May 19

Family dinner and movie night featuring “Where the Wild Things Are.” Participants should bring a blanket and children may come in pajamas. Beverage and popcorn provided. 6 p.m. Salida Library, 4835 Sisk Road. (209) 543-7353.

Superhero training

May 20

Children can take part in superhero training by lifting weights, making superhero medals and creating superheroes. 3 p.m. Hughson Library, 2412A Third St. (209) 883-2293.

Create your own superhero

May 20

Children can create paper superheroes. Sponsored by the Friends of the Denair Library. 3 p.m. Denair Library, 4801 Kersey Road. (209) 634-1283.

Preschooler talent show

May 21

Participants can show off their skills such as counting, spinning and singing their ABC’s. Noon. Hughson Library, 2412A Third St. (209) 883-2293.

Seed germination program

May 21

“Building STEAM Seed Germination” program for kindergarten through third-grade students and their families. After reading and book discussion, children will learn about germination by planting a seed that they may take home and watch grow. 3:30 p.m. Oakdale Library, 151 S. First Ave. (209) 847-4204.

Scrapbooking program

May 23

Local scrapbooker Anna Soto will lead a free scrapbooking program. Participants encouraged to bring their own photographs and materials. 4:30 p.m. Modesto Library, 1500 I St. (209) 558-7814.

All programs are part of the Stanislaus County Library system and are free to attend.

Event listings compiled by Karen Aiello, kaiello@modbee.com.

This story was originally published May 16, 2015 at 7:18 AM with the headline "Learning and fun at Stanislaus County library programs."