Welcome to the Howard County Library Website

August Greetings from the Library!

The Dog Days of summer are here, and with the heat hanging on, it’s tempting to stay inside where it’s cool. Why not make the most of these lazy summer days by catching up on some of those best-sellers you’ve been meaning to read? You may find just what you’re looking for on our New Arrivals shelf, conveniently located near the front of the library. And if we don’t have the book you want, just ask! We can often get it for you through the Evergreen System. Stop by, stay cool, and find your next great summer read at the Howard County Library!  (Clipart from https://clipart-library.com/clipart/1119062.htm.)

Readers to return in September

Most of us are turning our thoughts toward fall, and we hope to see more of you as the weather becomes cooler. Our adult book club, “Readers,” will begin meeting again for the 26-27 year on Thursday, September 3 at 5 p.m. and will continue to meet on the first Thursday of the month through May.  “Readers” is open to anyone who enjoys reading and discussing what you’ve read. You do not have to read any certain book; just come and enjoy lively conversations about all sorts of books. If you are interested and want more information, just call us at 660-248-3348.

we have fun times planned for our young Patrons 

We’re ready to get Toddler Time revved up for fall! Join us every Thursday at 10 a.m. for stories, games, puzzles, and plenty of opportunities for little ones to play and socialize. It’s a great way for toddlers—and their grown-ups—to enjoy some time together at the library. And don’t forget Block Day, held the first Friday of each month in our downstairs playroom. Young builders can let their imaginations take over as they create, stack, build, and experiment with a variety of blocks. Can’t make it to a scheduled activity? No problem! Our downstairs playroom is always open. Bring your little ones in anytime and let the fun begin!

Library receives grant

Howard County Public Library has been awarded a $10,000 gift from the Andrew Carnegie organization in recognition of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.  The Howard County Library staff say the funds will be used to expand programs and create new opportunities for residents across the community. The grant honors the legacy of Scottish immigrant and philanthropist Andrew Carnegie, who funded the construction of 1,681 free public libraries in the United States between 1886 and 1917. Today, approximately 1,280 of those libraries remain in operation, with about 750 still serving their communities from their original buildings. Carnegie famously described libraries as “cradles of democracy” that “strengthen the democratic idea, the equality of the citizen.” His belief that free public libraries provide opportunity and access to knowledge for all continues to shape communities more than a century later The $10,000 gift will directly support expanded programming, and educational workshops designed to increase access to learning resources for residents of all ages. “This generous gift allows us to build on Carnegie’s vision by ensuring our library remains a place where everyone has access to information, enrichment, and opportunity,” The award not only commemorates a historic milestone in the nation’s history but also reinforces the enduring role of public libraries as vital centers of education, civic engagement, and community connection.

Renew your shelf at the library Booksale!

If you are a bargain hunter, we have a continuous book sale. You can find many good books, which are four for a dollar!

Do you want to support the library? Join Friends of the Library

  Some of you have indicated that you would like to do more to support our library. A great way to do that is to join “Friends of the Library!”  This is an organization open to anyone who is interested in the ongoing success of the library. An individual membership to join friends is $10 annually, while a family membership is $20. We also offer lifetime memberships for $200.  The purpose of Friends is to provide annual funding for the library collection, underwrite programs, such as The Summer Reading Program, Special Holiday events  and visiting author programs and to support the purchase of various items that cannot be fulfilled from the library’s operational budget.  We would love to have new members!