Your local public library is a fantastic spot for saving money — especially with kids. If you haven’t checked out your library, take advantage of National Library Week this week — April 12 through 18 — to do so. You won’t regret it.
In honor of this week, I’m listing a few of my favorite things to do at our library.
Free storytime
I go to Oconomowoc Public Library’s free storytime every Tuesday morning, which is a great way to kill a couple of hours with my girls. Betsy Bromley, the children’s librarian, does a fantastic job during storytime. I am really impressed with her program.
The Oconomowoc library also recently remodeled their kids’ section to include more toys and games. My girls love it! We often see some friends there, too, so it’s impromptu playtime.
I love renting kids’ videos for free and checking out books for all of us (which saves me from impulsively running to Books & Co. to buy myself books). Better yet, when I do return something late, I feel no guilt. I consider my late fees as a way of financially supporting our library. It’s a win-win situation for everyone.
American Girl party
This Saturday, the Oconomowoc Public Library is hosting a FREE American Girl party from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. This great event includes crafts, games and other fun activities to celebrate the American Girl dolls. You can bring a doll with you or just bring yourself.
This party is open to kids in 4K through 6th grade, and kids under 8 need to be accompanied by an adult. Please register with each child’s name, age and phone number at the information desk, by calling (262) 569-2193 or emailing childrens@cooney.lib.wi.us.
Read with Rover
I think this is so cool: Kids can practice their reading skills with Buddy, a certified therapy dog. Maybe this will help an animal-loving reluctant reader find joy in the printed page. You can sign up at the information desk for a 15-minute with Buddy. Call 262-569-2193 and ask for the children’s librarian Betsy Bromley.
Enjoy National Library Week! And remember to thank your librarians for all their wonderful work.