Special to the Times Vedette
April is finally here, and so is National Library Week, which is April 7-13 this year. Sponsored by the American Library Association, the theme for National Library Week 2024 is “Ready, Set, Library!”
“Ready, Set, Library” promotes the idea that in our digital world, the library still offers something special to its patrons. The library also offers a gathering place, a place to connect with others, to learn new skills, and to focus on what matters most. Check our community calendar on the website to see what events are scheduled and to sign up. No matter what stage of life you are in, the library can provide something for you.
Our library offers you a place to access free Wi-Fi. We have computers, tablets and game systems that can be used. Mobile hotspots are available to check out for those who need internet at home.
For those who are looking to begin a new career or look for a job, remember that the library offers extensive career resources online. To access, go to https://www.guthriecenter.lib.ia.us/ and click Online Resources. Then choose Brainfuse. Under Brainfuse, select JobNow from the pulldown menu. In JobNow, patrons can access live resume coaching and live interview coaching. Additionally, there is assistance with unemployment, including how to complete paperwork to access benefits. SkillsFirst is award-winning software to help with resume creation, job interview prep and more. Resume templates are also available for patrons’ use. For those who are considering a career change, eParachute helps users discover college majors and careers that match skills and interests. The best part of this program is that it is free. All that is required is a library card, and those are free, too.
To celebrate National Library Week, consider using one of the many services the library has to offer.
Cribbage, bridge and card-making
Every Monday from 9-11 a.m., cribbage players compete in the Taylor Meeting Room. Bridge class meets every Wednesday morning at the same time and place. Players are welcome to join, regardless of skill level. Card Making Club meets the third Thursday of each month to create one-of-a-kind greeting cards. The group is led by Judi Zimmerline. There is a $5 fee, which covers the cost of all needed supplies.
Book Club
On Tuesday, April 9, Between the Covers will meet to discuss this month’s book club selection “How Beautiful We Were” by Imbolo Mbue. Copies are available for check out by anyone who would like to participate. Book club meets at 3 p.m.
Lunch and Learn
Be sure to pre-register for the April Lunch and Learn, which will be from noon to 1 p.m. on Wednesday, April 10. Dementia Friends of Iowa will be presenting a workshop to help people who want to help someone living with dementia. The program explain the basics of dementia such as what dementia is, what it’s like to live with the disease, and some tips for communicating with people who have dementia. A light lunch will be served. Pre-register by calling or emailing the library or signing up online.
New Opportunities Naloxone Training
New Opportunities will be presenting a workshop on Thursday, April 11 at 5:30 p.m. An overview of opioids and Naloxone distribution training will be the topic of this program. Issues addressed in the program will explain what opioids are and how they impact physical functioning, the consequences of opioid misuse, what Narcan is, what Narcan is used for, and how to obtain and administer NARCAN properly. Naloxone (NARCAN) will be onsite and available for distribution provided by New Opportunities. If you have questions, call New Opportunities at 712-792-9266.
After-school STEM Program
Students of all ages are invited to attend the after-school STEM program presented by the Guthrie County ISU Extension Office. Participants will be working on spring-related STEM activities. The workshop is from 3:30-4:30 p.m. on Monday, April 15.