Between the Stacks: 2/28/2024

One of the great things about libraries is that the staff learns so many things from the patrons. A patron brought me information on a new Property Tax Assistance Program for the Tax Year 2024. There are applications at the Library and this program offers up to an 80% reduction in property taxes, depending on the owner's income. The applications must be filled out and delivered by April 15, 2024.

For all of my favorite techies, the Library will be hosting an evening program on Robotics R What?? at 6 PM on March 6th for anyone who would like to be involved in a robotics program for teens and adults. The evening will include adventures on a naval submarine and how robotics play a part in the modern military as well as a sign-up for those interested in robotics. Our new robotics expert Sheldon will be here to lead the way!

Then on Friday afternoons, beginning March 1st, at 2:30 PM the Library will be hosting a Robotics 101 program for children 1st - 5th grade. They will be building projects, learning to operate their inventions, and more. To have enough supplies for everyone, please sign up by calling 287-3763 so we can get them ordered.

The Library will be hosting a Caregiver Respite Retreat at the Library on March 6th from 10 AM to 3 PM. Each caregiver will receive a $100 gift card to help cover the cost of caregiving or for self-care. The retreat is free and open to anyone who is caring for a loved one. Call the MSU Extension office to register at 1-406-287-3282. It will be a wonderful time of information, networking, and relaxation for those who give so much to others.

Don't forget to turn your clocks forward on March 9th for Daylight Savings Time. The Library's hours will remain the same, but we may be a little sleepy on Monday morning.

March calendars are out and available at the front desk. We are already booking programs for summer reading and this year's theme will be an international look at stories and folktales. The theme is "One World, Millions of Stories." Look for more information soon!

I will be attending the Broad Valleys Federation meeting in March. This is always a great two-day event to reconnect with other librarians in our area and learn new things. With all of the different issues facing the library world, current updates are more important than ever to serve our patrons in an informed and educated manner.