New and expanded programs at the NFM Library
The North Fort Myers Public Library is starting the New Year with new and expanded popular programs, according to chief librarian Maryellen Woodside.
She also noted that a new addition to the local branch this year is librarian Kathy Chumley, who is now at the reference desk.
“Chumley is a new face, a new staff member who has been here since November,” said Woodside. “She will be coordinating programs, and is looking forward to meeting seasonal residents who haven’t seen her before.”
Always a popular way to start the new year – and each month – is the library’s Books and Bites program, which meets the first Monday of every month.
The first session will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, Jan. 4.
“I would call it a very casual atmosphere, no heavy preparation involved. It can really go anywhere,” said Woodside, who will be hosting it with Chumley. “It’s not always about books – sometimes it is movies, sometimes events.”
The monthly social hour’s goal is to discuss any books in any format, or movies that have piqued your interest.
“We provide the coffee and refreshments, you provide your enthusiasm. Registration is requested,” said Woodside.
n The Miss Marple
Monthly Knitters
Another monthly gathering that has gained popularity at the library is the Miss Marple Monthly Knitters.
“They’ve actually added another week since last year, going strong,” said Whiteside. “They now meet the first and third Tuesday of the month.”
The programs will be held at 2 p.m. Tuesdays, Jan. 5 and 19. These sessions are for knitters and crocheters of all levels. You are invited to visit and share project and technique ideas. Registration is requested.
On Tuesday, Jan, 12, get out those old sweaters and head to the library.
“It’s a one-time program,” said Ricki Howie, who also coordinates the Miss Marple Monthly Knitters. “We take old wool sweaters and make a purse our of it.”
The program is called “Felting Magic: Turn an Old Sweater into a New Purse” and will be held at 2 p.m. on the 12th.
Decorate an old wool sweater, throw it into your washing machine and – viola! A stylish new bag, coordinators said.
n “Florida Yards & Neighborhoods – How to Save Money and be Kind to the Environment.”
The session is scheduled for 2 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 14.
Florida Friendly landscaping means using low maintenance plants and environmentally sustainable practices. Learn how you can have a beautiful landscape that can save you time, energy and money. Presented by Lee County Master Gardener Mary Ann Parsons.
“It’s a real basic introduction into gardening with native plants, like gardening for wildlife,” said Chumley. “A master gardener will be here to answer all your questions.”
Other programs for the month include:
n Ian Frost & Bill Studdiford Present The Three Romantics – Byron, Keats, Shelley
11 a.m. Thursday, January 21
The English Actor and the American Playwright compare the three poets: What they thought of each other, their differences, their similarities, their sense of humor – and more of their poetry!
n Book Discussion: Pat Conroy’s South of Broad
The discussion is set for 2 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 21.
In Conroy’s latest dramatic novel, set in Charleston, a brother’s suicide results in Leopold Bloom King’s developing enduring friendships that are ultimately tested in an unexpected way. Registration is requested.
n The Saga of the Whooping Crane – Past, Present, and….???
2 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 26
The Whooping Crane is America’s tallest bird and is listed on the Audubon Society’s Most Endangered Species list as the third rarest avian species. Under threat from both man and nature’s forces, the whooping crane’s hold on life remains tenuous and problematic at best. Please join the group for a comprehensive, non-technical exploration of one of nature’s more remarkable creatures. Presented by John Canter, an author, environmentalist, Audubon Society member and lifetime member of the Whooping Crane Conservation Association.
FAMILY
n Baby-Parent Rhyme Time
11:30 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 7
Be prepared to tickle, jump and fly with your baby! These rhymes and songs are for infants, up to 24 months, accompanied by an adult. This 20-minute program is filled with songs designed to introduce rhyming and movement to infants. Registration is required.
n Family Storytime
10:30 a.m. Wednesdays, Jan. 20, 27
This program is for the whole family and lasts about 30 minutes. Registration is required.
CHILDREN
Kids Read Down Fines
2 – 3 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 9
Do you have library fines? Take care of them by reading! Children and teens can earn $2 for every 15 minutes of reading during allotted time in the designated area of the library. For ages 18 and younger.
Game Day @ the Library
2 p.m. Monday, January 25
Board games are back! Choose from classic favorites like Scrabble, Sorry, Yahtzee, Monopoly, Checkers, Chess and more. Refreshments provided. Come have fun!
TEENS
2 – 3 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 9
Do you have library fines? Take care of them by reading! Children and teens can earn $2 for every 15 minutes of reading during the allotted time in the designated area of the library. For ages 18 and younger.
Basic Aerodynamics
2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 30
What makes an airplane fly? How is the magic we call lift produced? What forces act upon an airplane in flight? What does the rudder do – really? What is the center of gravity, and why is it critical to safe flight? For answers to these and other questions, spend an hour with an aviation expert.
The North Fort Myers Public Library is located at 2001 N. Tamiami Trail NE in North Fort Myers. For more information about a program or to register, call the library at 533-4320. A sign language interpreter is available with 5 business days notice to library staff. Assistive listening system available; request at desk.
Check the Lee County Library System s Web site at http://library.leegov.com, or pick up an events calendar on your next visit, to find out about programs at other locations. Call the host library, or Telephone Reference at (239) 479-INFO (4636), for more information about a specific program.