Are you neglecting a resource you're already paying to support?
Property owners in Cole and Osage counties who do not use the Missouri River Regional Library are doing exactly that.
National Library Week, observed through Saturday, offers an opportunity to become acquainted with everything the local public library has to offer.
A Patron Appreciation Day will be hosted from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday at the main location, 214 Adams St. Hot dogs, chips, soda, music and activities will be available.
The day will give newcomers a chance to see the array of materials, activities and services that are available. For people interested in becoming reacquainted with the library, free replacement library cards, which normally cost $2, will be provided. And the Food for Fines program will deduct $1 in library fines for each donated food item.
As examples of what you may be missing, during the remainder of April, patrons may:
• Participate in yoga classes, held on Wednesday and Thursday.
• Become familiar with eReaders at an upcoming Tech Time.
• Gather with other science fiction fans, a sci-fi author and former English professor to examine the topic, "What Science Fiction Can Teach Us."
• Learn about the history, types and traditions of tea during a two-part class titled, "Steeped in Tea."
The theme for this year's national observance is "Lives change @ your library."
According to the American Library Association: "Libraries across the nation are bringing communities together as new technologies continue to change the world around us. No longer just places for books, libraries provide resources that reflect the needs of the communities they serve. From seed-lending libraries to technology workshops for job seekers, libraries transform communities through education and community engagement."
A library contains a treasure trove of information, both real and imagined. It opens worlds spanning the spectrum of time and place.
Check it out.