Library pushing programs
The Marshall County Library has brought on Wonso Hayes as program coordinator.
A retired professor at Rust College, Hayes brings her organizational and communication skills to the program.
Library director Amanda McDonald said the main focus at the library is get the summer reading program relaunched after two years of COVID-19 shutdown.
“It’s a good place to teach children and important to reading,” she said. “The library serves the community as a research hub and research center for the community. We want people to start coming back in.”
McDonald said libraries are not hush hush places like they used to be. They are a place of active and hands on involvement and a resource for use of WiFi, the fax machine and copiers.
“We have the only free meeting room in town,” she said. “Groups meet here – the Pilot Club, Relay For Life. We are getting a touch-screen display, paid for by ARPA dollars, for better presentations by groups.”
The library is making use of ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act) dollars to upgrade its technology.
“We have brand new patron computers at all three libraries that we bought with ARPA dollars,” McDonald said. “We have updated the Internet and Wifi and got laptops for patron use.”
Hayes, who came on board the last two weeks in March, listed some ideas and projects she will help with.
The Brown Bag Luncheon held over the noon hour will be brought back on Mondays.
Patrons bring their lunch and review a book, look at health and wellness, nutrition, and consumer issues and arts and crafts, Hayes said.
Consumer issues may include medicare and retirement type information.
The libraries at Potts Camp and Byhalia will implement the same kinds of programs as in Holly Springs.
“The main idea is to get the community involved – all ages – children, adults and retirees,” said Hayes.
The library will work with senior daycare centers to introduce networking opportunities.
The six-week summer reading program will be brought back on with the theme “Oceans of Possibility.” Summer programs were suspended in 2020 due to COVID-19.
A monthly corner or column in the paper will be sought where a new book or activity can be highlighted monthly.
“Our main focus is to get out in the community,” Hayes said. “We welcome ideas and want people to feel free to come to the library, use the library and bring children to the library. We encourage people to get library cards. Children can check out books through an adult who has a card. Or children can get a Magnolia library card for children and vulnerable adults. These cards do not need a parent’s signature.
For more information or to provide support and ideas, contact McDonald or Hayes or the branch librarian.
Call 662-252-3823 to reach the library at 109 E. Gholson Avenue in Holly Springs. Opening hours are 9 a.m. Monday through Friday and from 8 a.m. To 2 p.m., Saturdays. The normal closing hours Monday through Friday are 6 p.m. Except on Tuesdays and Thursdays when the facility is open until 8 p.m.
The Potts Camp Library, on 20 South Center Street, Potts Camp, is open Monday through Friday from 1 p.m. To 5 p.m. And closed Saturday and Sunday. Call 662-333-7068 for information.
The Ruth B. French Library in Byhalia, at 161 Highway 309 South, is open from 9:30 a.m. To 3:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday and from 9:30 a.m. To 1:30 p.m. Friday. Call 662-838-4024 to speak to the librarian.
Photo by Sue Watson
Wonso Hayes and Amanda McDonald