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AT HOME WITH KAYLA PRICE 5/20: Summer fun at the library

AT HOME WITH KAYLA PRICE 5/20: Summer fun at the library
  • PublishedMay 20, 2022


Local Summertime Fun at the Sulphur Springs Public LibraryWhen I was a child, my mom would often take my sister and me to the Sulphur Springs Public Library.  It was a treat.  We were allowed to check out one or two books each that we kept for a week and then returned.  We loved going to the library!If we were particularly well-behaved, we might get to go upstairs and see the St. Clair Music Box Collection.  This necessitated getting a staff member with the key to escort us up the stairs to the northwest corner of the building to a room filled with beautiful musical boxes. These treasures came in all sorts of themes and sizes.  Some were porcelain, some were gold, some had moving parts, but they all were works of art – drawing you in with their beauty.I realize that not every public library offers a unique collection, such as our music boxes.  But I do know that every library offers thousands of chances for a child to explore their imagination, learn something new, start a lifelong hobby, and gain experience in using reference materials.  Whether a child grows up to be an athlete, a rock star, a chemical engineer, or a police officer, they will have a skill of value when they need entertainment or information.A few years ago I was teaching a class at a local university.  On the first day of class, we were going over the syllabus.  An adult learner inquired about the research unit, asking if we would be going to the library.  She had never been to a library, and she was mortified that she would have to go to one for the class.  This stunned me.  I could not imagine being in my 40s and never having been to a library.One of my favorite aspects of a public library is that it is free to use.  It is so expensive for families to go out for entertainment these days.  A family outing to the library is a great option for fun and saving money.And, for me, not only do I love to save money, but borrowing books is a great way to reduce clutter in my home.  Borrowing a book allows me to enjoy the book without having to find a home for it in my house when I finish reading it.The Sulphur Springs Public Library offers extended hours and Saturday hours to make access available for all.  In addition to books and magazines, they also have audio books, computers, and a copy machine for patrons to use.  Summer brings the addition of all sorts of interesting programs, from family game nights and story times to live music and a chemistry roadshow.  The library calendar is available on their website.And the St. Clair Music Box Collection is still on display at the library!  I am sure the music boxes still amaze young and old alike with their beauty and intricacy.  The histories and stories are fascinating as well.If you are looking for fun and educational ways to inspire your youngsters and yourself, look no further than the Sulphur Springs Public Library!

Read more: https://kaylaprice.com/

Watch more: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqmOAZ8g5R2zP_WlMw6b6Fw

Contributed by Kayla Price

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Written By
Taylor Nye

Taylor Nye is the editor of Front Porch News. She has degrees from the University of Wisconsin in human biology, Latin American studies, and public health. She has previously worked at the Wisconsin State Journal, Tucson Weekly and Sulphur Springs News-Telegram. As a sixth generation Hopkins County resident, she loves celebrating our heritage and history.