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This past year brought many challenges to the St. Charles Public Library. Our temporary move to Haines, the beginning of the construction and renovation project on our new building, and handling COVID-19 restrictions meant our library services were in a constant state of flux. Despite these challenges, we were able to offer the community the following services:
- Two new community book drops; one on the northeast side near the Fox River & Countryside Fire Rescue District and one next to the new St. Charles Police Department
- Online registration for new residents to obtain a library card online
- A new cultural literacy series featuring characters from different racial, ethnic, religious, ability, economic, LGBTQ and neurodiverse backgrounds
- Expanded book club services
- Online access to our collection and programs during COVID-19 restrictions
- The new online resource Explore More Illinois
- Programming with new community partners (Trivia Night at Pollyanna Brewing Company)
We were happy to provide these new options to patrons this year.
Reading in the New Year
As winter has us in its chilly embrace, make sure to set your reading goals for the year. Our Reading Adventure 2021 program encourages adults to try reading a new genre, author or topic. You also may want to join a book club (we have them!) or purposely set some quantitative goals in Goodreads (goodreads.com). Our librarians can help you find your next best or challenging reading or listening title. On our website, you can submit a Personalized Reading List form and one of our Reader Services librarians will send reading suggestions right to your inbox. It is simple to put those reading resolutions into action. Access your reading materials online as an eBook or place a hold through our Vestibule Pickup Service. I have challenged myself to read 45 books in 2021. Let us be bold together; start your reading adventure today.
For younger children, our virtual I <3 Winter Reading program is in full swing. Visit our website, scpld.org/reading-programs, for more information on this winter challenge. For each hour read, kids will earn a badge. Once they’ve completed three hours of reading, they will receive a free book, button and entry into our raffle. There are mini missions and other bonus activities that can keep kids busy and entertained all winter long. Encourage kids to start the reading challenge and kick off the new year right.
Edith G. Craig is director of the St. Charles Public Library District. The “Discover Your Library” column runs the second Thursday of each month. Feedback can be sent to editorial@kcchronicle.com.