Experiencing 'Back to School' Blues?

The Yuma County Library District (YCLD) instructs you to look no further. Not only do we carry an abundant array of books, music, DVDs, and video games to keep you occupied in your now very precious downtime, we also have a variety of programs that cater directly to youth patrons and their families throughout the fall season.

While YCLD hosts year-round traditional programs such as Story and Baby Times, it also holds a variety of other programs to engage young minds. For babies, the Main Library and the San Luis library hold regular DUPLO (large LEGO-type blocks), building events where babies can begin to create, work on their hand/eye coordination skills, and bond with other young children. In addition, many of our library branches offer art programs for toddlers that include finger-painting, Play-Doh letter making, and other crafts and activities. Be sure to check our website at www.yumalibrary.org to see when your local branch is hosting art projects, DUPLO club, and Story/Baby times for younger children. This is also a great way for mothers of small children to meet new people and socialize with other parents.

For school-age children, the Library District offers a plethora of distinct and creative programs to improve socialization, literacy skills, and even brush up on technology training! Beginning in September, the Main Library will hold a Computer Excel Basics course for children ages 11-14. This class will be held in the 2nd floor computer classroom every Wednesday from 3:30-4:30 p.m. Sept. 12 through Oct. 31. This unique program will focus on improving homework and organizational skills through the use of Excel software.

For ‘Tweens ages 6-12 there will be two special events in September. “Talk Like a Pirate Day” will introduce children to our Mango software program – (available through our website for free with a library card) – and Roald Dahl day on Sept. 13. We will be celebrating the life and works of the famous author by playing games and having a costume contest! Please check our website for exact dates and times of these events.

In addition, this fall we will continue our regular Monday “Family Game Night” program at the Main library. This weekly program invites families to join us in our craft and story time area to play board games, work on puzzles, and challenge each other in Wii dance contests. This is an ongoing program at the Main Library at 6 p.m. every Monday evening beginning in September.

And, of course, no library would be complete without a LEGO club. Ask your local branch about the dates and times of their club, or join us at the Main Library where we meet the first and third Saturdays of each month at 11:30 a.m. Make imaginative creations with a new theme each time you visit!

Lastly (Whew!), a new program here in Yuma County is TAG, which stands for “'Tween Advisory Group.” Members of this group help library staff brainstorm about future events at the library, participate in community service projects, and make book and AV material suggestions for the department. They also help make displays and volunteer at library events. Applications are available for this group at the Youth Services Help Desk. Next meeting date will be Sept. 20 at 4 p.m.

I hope YCLD's fall events pique your interest. Remember to check our website for free book downloads, event calendars, homework help links, and much, much more! Of course, all mentioned programs are free of charge and available to the public. Stop by, say hi, and introduce your family to the wonderful world of libraries – the epicenter for lifelong learning.

Emily Scherrrer is the youth services manager for the Yuma County Library District.