Norwalk library hosts author for National Library Week
Norwalk Easter Public Library is hosting children’s author and children’s librarian Lydia M. Sigwarth for an author visit on Saturday, April 9, at 10:30 a.m.
Sigwarth will read her picture book, “Dear Librarian,” and provide a short presentation on the illustrations in the book, comparing them to real-life photos from her childhood experience. There will also be a craft activity.
“Dear Librarian” is a picture book chronicle of a child’s discovery of the world of books and learning through the library. Publisher’s Weekly’s review describes the book as “a gentle ode to the effect one person can have on another, and what a library can offer a community.”
This program is free and recommended for ages four and up with a parent or caregiver. Adults interested in the process of writing and publishing will also be interested in attending. Beaverdale Books will provide copies of “Dear Librarian” for purchase and autographing following the event.
The theme for National Library Week April 3-9, “Connect with Your Library,” promotes the idea that libraries are places to get connected to technology by using the internet, computers and other resources, as well as other people.
Libraries also offer opportunities to connect with media, programs, ideas and classes — in addition to books. Libraries also connect communities to each other. Overall, the theme is an explicit call to action — an invitation for communities to join, visit or advocate for their local libraries.
“Norwalk Easter Public Library offers so many surprising options to our users. We have lots of programs and events for all ages, as well as numerous learning and recreational opportunities such as movies, ebooks, sewing machines, online homework help, STEM kits, a seed library, board games, puzzles, and books, just to name a few great things,” said library director Jean Strable.
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To further celebrate this special week, the Norwalk Fareway Store is offering “Round Up for Reading” where shoppers can add to their Fareway register receipt total at checkout with funds raised to support library programs and activities through the Norwalk Easter Public Library Foundation.
National Library Week is an annual celebration sponsored by the American Library Association highlighting the valuable role libraries, librarians and library workers play in transforming lives and strengthening our communities.
Sensory Access Hour offered at Norwalk Library
Norwalk Easter Public Library will provide quiet browsing and inclusive programming for individuals of all ages with special sensory needs and their families or caregivers from 9-10 a.m. Saturday, March 26.
"We are trying to provide a welcoming, safe space for every kind of visitor, so this time will be designed for individuals on the autism spectrum and for anyone who appreciates a sensory-friendly environment," said Library Director Jean Strable. The library plans to offer this opportunity monthly to help meet the needs in our growing community.
Sensory Access Hour is a space for families and caregivers to network, share community resources and develop trust. Children and teens with special needs as well as their families are welcomed to the library by trained, friendly staff who assist with navigating the library and its various services: using computers, locating library materials, and promoting positive social interactions with their peers. Sensory-specific toys to help encourage positive play/interaction and minimize stress and anxiety are available.
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For additional information, see the event calendar http://ow.ly/rBSE50IaXVm or contact the library 515-981-0217 or library@norwalk.iowa.gov.
Seed Library sprouts again at Norwalk Library
The Norwalk Easter Public Library’s Seed Library is returning this spring. Patrons can visit the library to select any five packets from a wide assortment of flower, herb and/or vegetable seeds. No library card is needed to “borrow” the seeds.
“In addition to seeds, the library has a wide assortment of gardening books and magazines and even a couple of gardening kits to borrow. The gardening kits include tools to help a gardener get started without having to invest in the tools," said librarydDirector Jean Strable. “Hopefully Norwalk residents can use these free resources to experience the joys of gardening, save money, discover new plants and encourage healthy eating.”
The Seed Library is available while supplies last. Volunteers with the Warren County Master Gardeners and Harvest Academy partnered with the library to provide the collection.
More information can be found browsing www.norwalklibrary.org, emailing library@norwalklibrary.iowa.gov, following the library on Facebook or Instagram, or by calling the staff at 515-981-0217.
Teresa Kay Albertson covers Des Moines' southern suburbs for the Register and the Indianola Record-Herald. Reach her at talbertson@registermedia.com or 515-419-6098.
This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Norwalk library hosts author for National Library Week
