Special to the Times Vedette

Spring is on the way, which means the MJB Library Summer Reading Program is just around the corner. The month of June will be jam-packed with fun reading activities, so plan to spend some quality time at the library. This year’s theme is “Read, Renew, Repeat.”

In the meantime, MJB Library has many exciting events planned for all ages. For preschoolers and their caretakers, Story Hour is every Friday morning at 10 a.m. On Friday, March 15, our special guest will be Miss Iowa.  

Afterschool Programs

The Guthrie County ISU Extension is sharing an after school STEM workshop from 3:30-4:30 p.m. on Monday, March 18. Participants will be doing some spring-themed reading and activities.  STEM afterschool programs are also scheduled for Monday, April 22 and Monday, May 20.

History of Farming program

On Tuesday, March 19 at 5:30 p.m., Living History Farms will be presenting a program at the MJB Library about the History of Farming in Iowa. Learn how agriculture has evolved over the past several centuries in Iowa, from Native American farmers to 1850s settlers to the golden age of horse-powered farming. Photographs from the museum’s historic working farms will highlight the changes in what was grown on an Iowa farm, what tools and power were necessary, and the impact on farming families. Sign up online or by calling or emailing the library, as we have a 50-person limit for this special event. 

Card-making Class

Card-making class will meet from 9-11 a.m. on Thursday, March 21. Led by Judi Zimmerline, participants will learn to make stunning hand-made greeting cards. The $5 fee covers the cost of all needed materials. 

Cookbook Club

“Big Bites: Wholesome, Comforting Recipes that Are Big on Flavor, Nourishment, and Fun” by Kat Ashmore will be the source for the recipes that will be samples at cookbook club on Thursday, March 21 at 6:30 p.m. If you would like to participate, stop in the library to sign up for a recipe. Bring your dish and your appetite and come to the cookbook club to discuss the recipes in this month’s selection. 

Clubs

Cribbage meets every Monday morning from 9-11 a.m. in the Taylor Meeting Room while the bridge class is every Wednesday morning from 9-11 a.m. New players are welcome, regardless of skill level. 

Friends of the Library

Friends of the Library will be meeting at 6:15 p.m. on Tuesday, April 2. They will be planning their June golf fundraiser. 

Bluegrass Music and Cattle Drive Program

Mark your calendar for a fun and informative program at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, April 2. Joan Wells and Kris Simon will be presenting “Up the Nebraska Cattle Trail and Songs of the West” as part of the Speakers Bureau Living History Program. Wells and Simon will share the story of cattle drives on the Western Trail from Texas to Nebraska while sharing the origin of Western music and singing the songs of the early-day cowboys. Be ready to learn some history and enjoy some bluegrass music. 

Between the Covers

The April book club pick, “How Beautiful We Were” by Imbolo Mbue, is available to check out.  The novel, which is set in the fictional African village of Kosawa, tells of a people living in fear amid environmental problems caused by an American oil company. Children are dying from drinking toxic water, and farmland is infertile because of pipeline spills. Promises of cleanup and financial reparations to the villagers are made and ignored. The country’s government, led by a dictator, exists to serve its own interests. Left with few choices, the people of Kosawa decide to fight back. Their struggle will last for decades and come at a steep price.

Special to the Times Vedette

Mary J Barnett Memorial Library launches its Read, Renew, Repeat summer reading program during the month of June. During June, the library will host a range of free activities for children to encourage and support a love of reading. Participants can win prizes for reaching their reading goals.

“We’ve planned a wonderful program for kids to make the library a great place to read, learn, and discover what’s available for their enjoyment,” said Library Director Jerri Hawkins. “Karen, Cass, Ava and I are planning some exciting programs and creation stations.” 

There’s also a serious side to summer reading. Research has shown that reading over the summer prevents summer reading loss.

“Studies also indicate students who read recreationally outperformed those who don’t. Students read more when they can choose materials based on their own interests,” Hawkins added. “Our library is committed to supporting lifelong learning and educational enrichment for all families.”

Registration is now open and continues through the first part of June. To learn more about the summer reading adventure at the library, call 641-747-8110 or check out the library’s website www.guthriecenter.lib.ia.us.

Our March display at the MJB Library is a nod to March Madness and to the rich history of women’s basketball in Iowa. The display features memorabilia on loan from Guthrie Center native and Iowa High School Girls Athletic Union Hall of Fame Member, Debbie Menning. The display will be out through the end of the month.

By Karen Kelly | Special to the Times Vedette

March 2 was the birthday of Dr. Seuss, and it was also Read Across America Day, a day celebrated in many American schools to promote reading.  In conjunction with these celebrations, the Iowa State Extension is promoting READ across Iowa during March. 

The month-long READ across Iowa celebration is intended to motivate kids to read, to bring the joys of reading to students of all ages, and to make all children feel valued and welcomed. The 2024 theme is Food Science. Check with your local extension office for special virtual events including read-alouds. 

Why is reading so important that we devote a month to promoting it?  Did you know that reading to children and having books in the home is one of the strongest predictors of school success? Children who read and listen to books hear a greater variety of words — up to 50% more — leading to a better vocabulary than those who watch media. Children raised in homes with more than 500 books spent three years longer in school than children whose parents had only a few books. 

Not only is reading important for the development of children, it is vital for all ages. Were you aware that researchers estimate that reading can reduce stress by up to 68%? Adults with a reading habit are 2.5 times less likely to develop Alzheimer’s. 

This lovely spring diamond quilt is on loan from Robyn Corkins. The quilt, which will be on display in the library until the end of March, was made by Robyn’s cousin, Pam Baker.

March is also Women’s History Month.  Stop in the MJB Library to see the display of books celebrating Women’s History Month. The children’s section features a display of biographies about influential female leaders, business people, athletes, artists, writers and entertainers. For adults, there is a display of fiction and nonfiction books featuring strong women and important women’s issues. Coloring pages celebrating Women’s History Month are also available for patrons to pick up. 

Additionally, March is National Craft Month and National Quilting Month. Take a minute to look at the display featuring crafting and quilting books. 

While you’re at the library, take a look at our display of movies.  We have some new releases like “Wonka,” “Oppenheimer” and “Barbie” as well as some classic favorites like “Field of Dreams,” “Stand by Me” and “Little Miss Sunshine.” Be sure to look at the Taylor Meeting Room window display for some book suggestions as well. 

Lunch and Learn

Remember the March Lunch and Learn on Wednesday, March 13. Farm Bureau and Erin Swalwell from Advanced Markets are presenting Changing Hands: Practical Tips in Farm Estate and Succession Planning. This event will be from noon to 1 p.m.; a light lunch is provided. 

StoryHour

Miss Iowa, Alyssa Goethe, will be our guest for StoryHour on March 15. St. Patrick’s Day is the theme on March 22. On March 29, we will be celebrating Easter. Preschool StoryHour is each Friday at 10 a.m. 

STEM Program

Monday, March 18, the Guthrie County ISU Extension will present a STEM program from 3:30-4:30 p.m. in the Taylor Meeting room. Participants will be “springing” into STEM activities as well as a story and craft. 

History of the Farming in Iowa program

The Living History Farms will be presenting a program at the MJB Library about the History of Farming in Iowa on Tuesday, March 19 at 5:30 p.m. Learn how agriculture has evolved over the past several centuries in Iowa, from Native American farmers to 1850s settlers to the golden age of horse-powered farming. Photographs from the museum’s historic working farms will highlight the changes in what was grown on an Iowa farm, what tools and power were necessary, and the impact on farming families. Sign up online or by calling or emailing the library, as we have a 50-person limit for this special event. 

Cookbook Club

“Big Bites: Wholesome, Comforting Recipes that Are Big on Flavor, Nourishment, and Fun” by Kat Ashmore will be the source for the recipes to share at the cookbook club on Thursday, March 21 at 6:30 p.m. If you would like to participate, stop in the library to sign up for a recipe. Bring your dish and share your food and your opinions about this month’s cookbook. 

Calling all Bluegrass fans

Bluegrass music fans and history buffs, mark your calendar for a fun and informative program at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, April 2. Joan Wells and Kris Simon will be presenting “Up the Nebraska Cattle Trail and Songs of the West” as part of the Speakers Bureau Living History Program.  Wells and Simon will share the story of cattle drives on the Western Trail from Texas to Nebraska while sharing the origin of Western music and singing the songs of the early-day cowboys. 

By Karen Kelly | Special to the Times Vedette

Lent, the 40 days between Ash Wednesday and Easter, is a time of self-sacrifice, reflection and prayer in preparation for the celebration of the resurrection of Jesus. Many people choose to sacrifice or give up things for Lent. Sometimes the sacrifice is a favorite food like chocolate, meat or desserts; or bad habits that may involve gossiping, drinking alcohol or soda; or fun activities that may include social media, shopping or watching TV.  

When I was in junior high school, I had a friend who gave up peas for Lent. I asked if it was his favorite food, to which he replied, “Nah, I hate them. I just needed to find something that I could successfully give up for 40 days.” Sometimes, I guess we just need a win.  

Reading is the one thing I have never heard of anyone giving up for Lent. So this Lenten season, regardless of your sacrifice or your motives, consider using your extra time to engage in some self-care and spend a bit of time with a good book. 

Consider one of our new books, “Growing Slow: lessons on un-hurrying your heart from an accidental farm girl.” This book reflects on how learning to “grow slow” can improve one’s life. Following the rhythms of the natural growing season, “Growing Slow” will help you to find the true relief that comes when you stop running and start resting in Jesus; to embrace the small, good things already bearing fruit in your life; and to engage in slow growth through reflection and simple steps. 

“Not That Fancy: Simple Lessons on Living, Loving, Eating, and Dusting off your Boots” by Reba McEntire shares what the author values in her life. This book includes photographs from Reba’s childhood, career and personal life; never-before-told stories from rodeoing with her family to pranks with Brooks & Dunn; behind the scenes anecdotes from her career, with inspiration on following your own passions; more than 60 recipes from Reba’s kitchen and her restaurant; and lighthearted lifestyle tips. 

Come in and browse, as we are sure to have a book that will interest you. If your family gave up phone time for Lent, check out our ever-growing collection of jigsaw puzzles or take home a board game to fill the void and promote some quality family time.

Story Hours

Miss Cass has some special fun planned for our preschool Story Hours in March. On March 8, the theme is alphabeasts and kids will do an animal alphabet craft. Miss Iowa, Alyssa Goethe, will be our guest for Story Hour on March 15. We’ll be celebrating St. Patrick’s Day on March 22. March 29 will be centered around Easter. Preschool Story Hour is each Friday at 10 a.m.  

Book Club

Between the Covers book club will be meeting Tuesday, March 12, to discuss “Killing the Legends: the Lethal Danger of Celebrity” by Bill O’Reilly. The library has copies available to check out for those who would like to participate in the book club.

Lunch and Learn

If you haven’t already signed up for the March 13 Lunch and Learn, call or go online today to pre-register. Farm Bureau and Erin Swalwell from Advanced Markets are presenting Changing Hands: Practical Tips in Farm Estate and Succession Planning. This session will provide education and resources for farm families planning to transition the farm to the next generation, in addition to basic real estate and business succession strategies. If your farm may be changing hands in the next five, 10 or 15 years, this session is one you won’t want to miss. The lunch and learn will take place from noon to one with a light lunch provided. Pre-register by calling the library, clicking on the website calendar event, or emailing the library at mjblib@guthriecenter.lib.ia.us.

STEM Program

Monday, March 18, the Guthrie County ISU Extension will present a STEM program from 3:30-4:30 p.m. in the Taylor Meeting room. The program will feature spring-themed STEM activities for elementary-aged children. 

History of Farming program

On Tuesday, March 19 at 5:30 p.m., the Living History Farms will be presenting a program at the MJB Library about the History of Farming in Iowa. Learn how agriculture has evolved over the past several centuries in Iowa, from Native American farmers to 1850s settlers to the golden age of horse-powered farming. Photographs from the museum’s historic working farms will highlight the changes in what was grown on an Iowa farm, what tools and power were necessary, and the impact on farming families. Sign up online or by calling or emailing the library as we have a 50-person limit for this special event. 

Cookbook Club

“Big Bites: Wholesome, Comforting Recipes that Are Big on Flavor, Nourishment, and Fun” by Ashmore will be the source for the recipes that will be samples at cookbook club on Thursday, March 21 at 6:30 p.m. If you would like to participate, stop in the library to sign up for a recipe. Bring your dish and your appetite and come to the cookbook club to discuss the merits of this month’s selection. 

Clubs

Cribbage meets every Monday from 9-11 a.m. in the Taylor Meeting Room while the bridge class is every Wednesday from 9-11 a.m.  Card-making class is the third Thursday of each month from 9-11 a.m.; March card-making class is March 21.  Card-making class charges a $5 fee for supplies. 

April Events

Mark your calendar for a fun and informative program at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, April 2. Joan Wells and Kris Simon will be presenting Up the Nebraska Cattle Trail and Songs of the West as part of the Speakers Bureau Living History Program. Wells and Simon will share the story of cattle drives on the Western Trail from Texas to Nebraska while sharing the origin of Western music and singing the songs of the early day cowboys. Be ready to learn some history and enjoy some bluegrass music.

The Mary J. Barnett Memorial Library is located at 400 Grand St. in Guthrie Center. Contact us at 641-747-8110 or mjblib@guthriecenter.lib.ia.us. Visit us online at www.guthriecenter.lib.ia.us.

By Karen Kelly | Special to the Times Vedette

With the unseasonably warm weather, the staff at MJB Library has begun to think about summer. More specifically, we are thinking about the summer reading program, which will have the theme Read, Renew, Repeat. As we look forward to the upcoming events of our summer, we have been reflecting on the fantastic participation we had last summer and the fun we had.

One of the highlights of our summer reading program was the finale, which was the foam party followed by pizza and prizes afterward. Our library is grateful for all the groups that support these events. Communities 4 Children: Audubon, Carroll, Greene and Guthrie County is an organization that supports our reading program through grants. Our foam party, many of the books and prizes were possible through funds received through Communities 4 Children and Community Partnerships for Protecting Children Neighborhood/Community Network Mini-Grant.

New books

Thanks to an ALA LTC grant, we are able to purchase more new large print books. We will be getting new titles each month that will include Inspirational/Amish books, thrillers, cozy mysteries, westerns and best sellers. Stop in and see our new titles.

Fans of psychological thrillers might be interested in the new books from author Frieda McFadden. McFadden’s fast-paced dark and twisty books are hard to put down and harder to predict. “The Housemaid” and “The Housemaid’s Secret” have been flying off the shelf, so we added “The Coworker” and “The Teacher.”

Another anxiously anticipated thriller that is available now is “The Fury” by Alex Michaelides. This masterfully paced thriller is about a reclusive ex-movie star and her famous friends whose spontaneous trip to a private Greek island is upended by a murder — from the No. 1 New York Times bestselling author of “The Silent Patient” and “The Maidens.”

From celebrated New York Times bestselling author Steve Berry comes the latest Cotton Malone adventure, in which Cotton unravels a mystery from World War II involving a legendary lost treasure, worth billions, known as Yamashita’s Gold. “The Atlas Maneuver” is ready to check out.

Readers hooked on the Joe Pickett series, come in for the latest in the series entitled “Three-Inch Teeth.” Wyoming game warden Joe Pickett faces two different kinds of rampaging beasts — one animal, one human — in this riveting new novel from No. 1 New York Times bestseller by C.J. Box.

Friends of the Library

Friends of the Library will be meeting on Tuesday, March 5 at 6:15 p.m. If you have an interest in supporting the growth of our library, please consider joining us. Yearly dues are $25.

Adult programs

MJB has much to offer adults in the way of programming. Each Monday, the Cribbage Club meets from 9-11 a.m. while the Bridge Club meets at the same time each Wednesday.

Between the Covers book club will meet at 3 p.m. on Tuesday, March 12 to discuss Bill O’Reilly’s book “Killing the Legends: The Lethal Danger of Celebrity.” Copies are available to check out at the library. Cookbook Club will meet Thursday, March 21 at 6:30 p.m. to sample recipes and discuss “Big Bites: Wholesome, Comforting Recipes that Are Big on Flavor, Nourishment, and Fun” by Kat Ashmore. Be sure to stop at the library to choose your recipe to bring to the meeting.

The next Lunch and Learn is Wednesday, March 13 from noon to 1 p.m. The Farm Bureau and Erin Swalwell from Advanced Markets will present the program entitled: Changing Hands: Practical Tips in Farm Estate and Succession Planning. A light lunch will also be served. Be sure to call or go online to pre-register for this valuable event.

Living History Farms will present History of Farming in Iowa on Tuesday, March 19 at 5:30 p.m. Learn how agriculture has evolved over the past several centuries in Iowa. Photographs from the museum’s working farms will highlight the changes in what was grown on an Iowa farm, what tools and power were necessary, and the impact on Iowa farming families.  Space is limited to 50 people, so be sure to call the library to get registered for this event right away.

Bluegrass music lovers should mark their calendars for Tuesday, April 2.  At 1 p.m., a program will feature Cattle Trail and Songs of the West.

The Mary J. Barnett Memorial Library is located at 400 Grand St. in Guthrie Center. Contact us at 641-747-8110 or mjblib@guthriecenter.lib.ia.us. Visit us online at www.guthriecenter.lib.ia.us.

Our 2023 summer reading program kids had a fantastic time at the summer reading program finale as they played in the foam. Funds received through Communities 4 Children and Community Partnerships for Protecting Children/Neighborhood/Community Network Mini-Grants.

Friends of the Library Trivia night was a huge success. The first-place team, Brilliant Blasters, generously donated their winnings back to the Friends of the Library.

The Crazy Old Farts team took second place in the Friends of the Library Trivia Night. The team helped the fundraising by donating their winnings back to the Friends of the Library.