Lee County Public Library

The Great Pumpkin Decorating Project......

2011-10-25T10:03:00.000-07:00

We held our Great Pumpkin Decorating Program last Friday and it was a huge success. About thirty youngsters with their parents participated. I am here to tell you, these young people went above and beyond the perceived notion of pumpkin decorating. There were glittery, beaded, bejeweled and just plain old scary pumpkins. After the decorating the children and adults were treated to lemonade and popcorn and each given a trick or treat bag and a little treat. A great time was had by all. We are planning another program for Thanksgiving and another one for Christmas – watch this column for more details.

An Encore Performance......

2011-08-16T08:37:00.000-07:00

Last time Porkchop Productions performed for us I gave them two thumbs up (Ála Roger Ebert) but after last Thursday’s performance I am giving them a full downtown high five! This time the ladies performed “Sleeping Beauty” and what a performance it was! They had the children and the adults fascinated with their humor and high jinx! We were so happy to be able to have them back.

Stacy Maxwell and Laura Blanchette, the ladies of Porkchop, are from Aiken SC. They travel all over the Southeast with their shows and also are veteran radio, theater and voiceover artists. They are just a pleasure to host and we hope to have them back soon! They have an excellent Christmas show and we are attempting to get the funding to bring them back for the holidays.

We thank our partners at the Lee County Arts Council and The Bishopville Opera House. The 2011 Lee County Summer Reading program is partially funded by a grant from the SC State Library and the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services.

Once was just not enough......

2011-08-01T11:38:00.000-07:00

Well, we wished for it, and we got our wish. A few weeks ago, we hosted Pork Chop Productions and their staging of the “Bremen Town Musicians;” at the time I hoped we would be able to have them back again. Well, they are coming back on August 11th to stage “Sleeping Beauty.”

Anyone who has seen these talented actors has been enchanted with their interpretation of the classic fairy stories. Their stage presence and effervescent energy light up the stage, and pull the audience into the story. Of course, by using audience volunteers, they draw the audience in even more. (You think we like these girls – you got it we do!!)

So make plans to join us at The Bishopville Opera House on Thursday August 11th at 1:30 P.M. and help us welcome the Pork Chop Productions interpretation of “Sleeping Beauty.”

Pork Chop Productions......

2011-07-21T10:36:00.000-07:00

Last Thursday's production of "The Musicians of Bremen Town" was such a huge success that we have decided to asked these two talented actresses to return. Back by popular demand!!

The ladies will be staging "Sleeping Beauty" at the Bishopville Opera House on Thursday August 11th at 1:30PM. We can't wait!

Following are some snaps from last weeks production.

We thank our partners at the Lee County Arts Council and The Bishopville Opera House. The 2011 Lee County Summer Reading program is partially funded by a grant from the SC State Library and the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services.

The Finished Product.........

2011-07-02T08:26:00.000-07:00

Well, the Summer Reading Art class has concluded and we are displaying the finished works of art at the library. We will be moving the art to the Bishopville Opera House Drayton Gallery later this month.

The painting class went so well, we will be offering another. “Acrylic Painting with Dawn and Jess” will be on :
July 12th and 14th
July 19th and 21st
July 26th and 28th.
All classes will start at 10:00 AM at the Opera House and last about an hour. This is also a limited capacity program so you have to come to the library to sign up. The instructors are Dawn Ellen and Jessica Hiddemen.

We thank our partners at the Lee County Arts Council, The Bishopville Opera House and Clemson Extension. The 2011 Lee County Summer Reading program is partially funded by a grant from the SC State Library and the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services.

Cooking with Darlas..........

2011-07-01T12:12:00.000-07:00

Last week we had our “Cooking with Darlas” program at the Clemson Extension Building. This is one of our most popular activities of the Summer Reading Program. Darlas Moore, Clemson Extension Agent, leads the youngsters through the preparation of an entire meal. She shows how to properly measure ingredients, proper food handling and sanitation. Because the theme of this year’s Summer Reading Program is “One World – Many Stories” Darlas planned an international menu. The children made a Mexican Eggroll, Chinese Rice and German Streusel. Of course the best part was, that after all their hard work, the youngsters got to EAT their efforts! We will have another “Cooking with Darlas” program on July 21st. If you would like to participate, please sign up at the Library – there is a limited number of spaces.

Bright Star Traveling Theater.......

2011-06-16T13:04:00.000-07:00

As you can see from the rapt attention of the audience, The Bright Star Production presentation was huge success. The audience was completely caught up in the stories. Akili and Jabari presented the legends and folktales of Africa in a delightful and intriguing way!

Both the youngsters and the adults were captivated. We thank the Lee County Arts Council and the Bishopville Opera House for partnering in this event.

The 2011 Summer Reading Program begins.....

2011-06-12T14:19:00.001-07:00

Here are some heroes from Saturdays Kick Off Gala.

Louis and Vicki Moniz. Thanks so much for your help.

Kay Farmer & South Atlantic Canners for letting us use the trailer, and helping me get it unlocked!!

The AmeriCorps volunteers. They were the hands that got the job done.

Special mention for Laresha McDaniel who was my shadow all day. Helped me save my wounded wing. Also helped Brender-boo all day long!

Thanks to all. Hope you all had a good time.
esp

Summer Reading 2011.....

2011-06-10T11:27:00.001-07:00

So far we have in excess of 150 youngsters signed up for the 2011 Summer Reading Program. This is a substantial increase over last year and we are thrilled to be offering such a diverse program. Thursday June 16th, we will be offering a production at the Opera House presented by Bright Star Productions. . This event is open to the entire community. African Folktales is a 45-minute production that brings to life the vastness of the African landscape and a variety of clever animals. Join Akili as she shares these exciting tales that were traditionally passed down by word of mouth. With imaginative costumes and lots of audience participation, this production also includes valuable character-education themes. Celebrate world cultures, literature and the art of interactive African storytelling with the newest show in the Bright Star repertoire. The “Library Ladies” hope the entire community will come and join us for this great show. Admission, of course, is free.

New Programs for Summer Reading 2011

2011-06-07T06:45:00.000-07:00

Caption: Example of the artwork from the SC School for the Blind at the SC State Library.

Last January Dawn and I went to the SC State Library for a meeting. While there we enjoyed an art installation that was presented by the SC School for the Blind. To say we were blown away would be an understatement. The art work presented was in collage form and it was breathtaking in depth and diversity. From that visit an idea was formed.

This year for the 2011 Summer Reading program we will be offering art classes in collage. Ms. Jess Hindeman and Dawn will be the instructors and will offer sessions for 4th 5th and 6th graders and another for 7th 8th and 9th graders. Session dates are: June 14h and 16th, June 21st and 23rd and June 28th and 30th. The students will be making collages from a variety of natural materials and the only limitation will be their imagination.

After the sessions are completed, our partners the Lee County Arts Council and the Bishopville Opera House will be presenting the art in their main gallery. We are really excited about this great venue because it will offer the entire community the opportunity to view the handiwork of our area youngsters. This is the first year that we have offered this program and we hope we will be able to offer it again and again. Special sign-up sheets are at the library.

2011 Summer Reading Program

2011-06-06T08:21:00.001-07:00

We are right in the middle of sign-up week for the entire 2011 Summer Reading Program. If you would like to participate, come to the library and sign up. We will issue you a wrist band that will entitle you to come to our Gala Kick-Off at the Grammar School Park on Saturday June 11th. The gala will be held at 11:00AM and will feature hot dogs, a cake walk, music by Tiz Laney and lots of fun things. We hope to see all our summer readers in the park on Saturday. Remember, you must have a wrist band to participate.
The Library will be closed on June 11th.
The next program will be held on next Thursday June 16th at 1:00 PM at the Opera House. We will be hosting Bright Star Theater. This event is open to the entire community. African Folktales is a 45-minute production that brings to life the vastness of the African landscape and a variety of clever animals. Join Akili as she shares these exciting tales that were traditionally passed down by word of mouth. With imaginative costumes and lots of audience participation, this production also includes valuable character-education themes. Celebrate world cultures, literature and the art of interactive African storytelling with the newest show in the Bright Star repertoire. The “Library Ladies” hope the entire community will come and join us for this great show. Admission, of course, is free.
Thanks again to our partners the Lee County Arts Council for their support. The 2011 Lee County Summer Reading program is partially funded by a grant from the SC State Library and the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services.
Special thanks to our partners at the Lee County Chamber of Commerce for promoting our program on the community marquee.

Bloomin' Mother's Day Project....(and more!)

2011-05-06T11:28:00.000-07:00

The “Bloomin’ Mother’s Day” program that Brenda held today was a wild success! She had to have two sessions there was so much interest. The youngsters decorated flower pots and then planted flowers in them for their Mothers. Everybody had a great time and they all went home with something nice for Mom.

Final reminder gentle readers: the South Carolina Book Festival is this weekend on May 14th and 15th. There are going to be lots of authors, book sellers, appraisers and panel discussions. New to this year’s program is a special children’s area on the second floor of the Convention Center. Both Saturday and Sunday there will be children’s story times, theatrical presentations and music. Truly this year’s event has something for everyone. It occurs to me that all the time I have been promoting this event I forgot a very important item; namely – it’s FREE!!! Yep, the whole weekend is free. (Free is good in my world!) Meanwhile you are in the heart of Columbia’s Vista District with all the great galleries, antique stores and restaurants. It’s a win-win weekend. So I hope to see you in Columbia. If you are at the Convention Center give me a shout out. (I will be live tweeting all weekend!)

It's the 15th SC Annual Book Festival - come join us!!

2011-05-03T07:52:00.000-07:00

Every year the Lee County Library partners up with the South Carolina Book Festival and pitches in to help promote and put on the Festival. This year the Festival will be held from Friday May 13th through Sunday May 15th. The line up of authors is impressive!!

Friday is devoted to Master Classes. Here you can learn everything from how to discover your poetic voice to becoming a social media maven and lots of stuff in between. The classes are posted on the Festival website, or you can come to the library and ask me. Saturday there will be readings, discussions and book signings. Mary Alice Monroe, a popular South Carolina author will be presenting her new book “The Butterfly’s Daughter” and follow up with a book signing. C. J. Box, another bestselling author will also be presenting. There really are too many to list, but I know that our own Jack Bass and Natalie Dupree (Frances Ginsberg’s brother and sister-in-law) will be in attendance.

All of the information is available at www.scbookfestival.org, or come to the library and ask Elizabeth. Just one more thing, something new this year is a special children’s program running Saturday and Sunday on the Upper level of the Convention Center. Books a Million is sponsoring this event, and there will be music, story telling, magicians and theatrical productions. This is a new addition to the Festival and I am sure it will be delightful.

If you love books, like authors or just like to schmooze – this is a great volunteer opportunity. The Festival Directors work hard all year long on this project and they really appreciate the support of the volunteers. I have been volunteering for years and I am here to tell you: it’s a blast! You get to meet a bunch of new people and rub shoulders with some famous writers. (Who, by the way, are very approachable and nice.) Consider offering your time to this great event. Contact me at the library or visit the website for more information.

With all that said, the Library will be closed on Saturday May 14th. Hope to see you in Columbia!

Yikes.....

2011-04-30T08:29:00.000-07:00

Been awhile since I've posted. But, in my own defense, it HAS been a pretty busy spring.

Summer reading is just around the corner. I will be posting the schedule shortly but until then........

We have another great new program we will be giving on May 6th at 4:00 PM at the Library Annex. Brenda will be hosting a “Bloomin’ Mother’s Day” craft program. We all know that Brenda is into her crafts, and this program will utilize her talents and give the youngsters an opportunity to make a gift for their Mother. It’s all good!

Youngsters must sign up for this program. Come into the library and sign up before May 6th. Again, this program will be held on Friday, May 6th at 4:00 PM. We hope to see you then – adults are welcome!!

2011-02-19T08:25:00.000-08:00

(Photo Caption: Author Travis Haney with Risha,Rob and Bayler Teal)

The library has scored a coup! Dawn Ellen has contacted Travis Haney the author of “Gamecock Glory” and secured him to do a book signing on March 24th at 4:30 PM. The book, which is dedicated to Bayler Teal, is set for release in mid-March. To date, this event will be the first book signing that Mr. Haney has scheduled. The “Library Ladies” are excited.

Mr. Haney is a two year veteran sports reporter for the “Charleston Post and Courier.” He covers University of South Carolina as well as Southeastern Conference athletics. Mr. Haney, 27, covered the Atlanta Braves and Major League Baseball for two years before joining the Post and Courier staff.

The Gamecocks first met Bayler Teal at Columbia’s Palmetto Children’s Hospital in October 2008. The 5-year-old had been diagnosed with cancer a month earlier. The team expected to encounter a sickly kid, but instead it entered the hospital room to find Bayler smiling and bouncing on a couch. It was the Gamecocks’ introduction to Bayler’s fighting spirit and joyful disposition. Bayler went to war with cancer for 22 months, losing his life on June 24, 2010. The same night, in the College World Series, South Carolina extended its season by rallying for two runs in the 12th inning to defeat Oklahoma. The timing defies comprehension. The Gamecocks played in Bayler’s memory the rest of the way in Omaha, defeating rival Clemson twice and the UCLA twice in the national championship series. After the College World Series, Coach Ray Tanner repeatedly thanked and credited Bayler for inspiring his players. (Attribution: Gamecock Glory.com)

We are excited and pleased that Mr. Haney has agreed to come and do his first book signing. We hope the entire community will come out to meet him!

Strong Partnerships make strong communities

2011-02-11T10:03:00.001-08:00

The Lee County Library firmly believes that strong partnerships make strong communities; and therefore we were thrilled to partner with the MLD Higher Learning Academy to reward their students for achievement in the MAP tests administered last fall.

On February 4th, twenty four students from the MLD Academy took a break from their regular routine and visited the Friends of the Library Annex located on Nettles Street.
These students had made significant gains in the District MAP( Measures of Academic Progress) for the fall semester, 2010 and the school rewarded them with a day of celebration.

Students played the latest Wii and PSP2 technology games. They had a terrific time as they ate pizza, chicken and popcorn while they played numerous games and enjoyed socializing. This fun day incentive was planned to reward the students who made gains to continue to do so and to encourage and to motivate other students to work harder on the upcoming test. The students were excited about the celebration and committed to making the necessary gains needed to attend the next MAP Celebration.

One of the students said, that the Annex building was like heaven to him. He was able to
enjoy all of the games he ever dreamed of. Many students formed Rock Bands, while others became Michael Jackson with the famous glove. All in all, students had a blast!

The State Library wants to know,....

2011-02-01T08:23:00.000-08:00

The SC State Library is conducting "Why I Love my Library" all month. This is your chance to share your thoughts about your library with the "Big Boys" in Columbia.

http://www.statelibrary.sc.gov/component/option,com_chronocontact/Itemid,1526/

We are conducting the same campaign here at the Lee County Library, so feel free to leave comments here or on Facebook and Twitter.

Never was so much...

2011-01-31T09:59:00.001-08:00

Never was so much...
Originally uploaded by Phil Bradley

Wow, I LOVE this stuff. History, vintage posters and a message. It's all good @yourlibrary!!

Wow.......

2011-01-31T08:20:00.000-08:00

I found this image at the British Library = too cool and timely!

**Attribution: Phil Bradley's Weblog

It's all true......

2011-01-22T09:26:00.000-08:00

“Forget about that image of librarians as mousy bookworms. More and more of today’s librarians must be clever interrogators, helping the patron to reframe their question more usefully. Librarians then become high-tech information sleuths, helping patrons plumb the oceans of information available in books and digital records, often starting with a clever Google search but frequently going well beyond....."

Well, it's all true and here at the Lee County Library and we have FUN too!!

..Attributiom: quote from US News and World Report....

It's a steal......

2011-01-14T12:05:00.000-08:00

Well, not really a steal. The Librarians are weeding out our Juvenile Fiction shelves and we will be selling our books for $1.00 a volume. If you have youngsters who are into chapter books, this is a great opportunity to increase their library without breaking you wallet.

Come down to the Library and check out the selection. There's always something going on @ your library!!

From today's "Item" in Sumter SC

2010-12-13T08:35:00.000-08:00

BISHOPVILLE - Thanks to a grant from the federal institute of Museum and Library Services administered by the South Carolina State Library, the Lee County Public Library will be able to add technology and educational services to its after-school and summer youth programs.
"We are so excited," said Librarian Elizabeth Snyder-Powell. "We just never expected that our grant proposal could win out against the larger libraries in the state. What a great endorsement for Lee County and the Lee County Public Library!"
The $23,300 grant is designed to strengthen library's education related services for children and teens, she said.
Snyder Powell said the grant will provide additional computers and software.
Items included in the budget proposal are 10 laptop computers, two wireless portable routers, salaries for after-school tutors and field trip expenses for the summer reading program.
The after-school program is expected to begin soon, and will take place at the library annex on Nettles Street, Snyder-Powell said.
"We hope to recruit some top academic students to serve as tutors for the after-school program," she said. "They will be able to help other students with their homework."
Snyder-Powell said field trips are a very important part of the summer reading program, and the inclusion of the field trip in the grant proposal satisfied the requirement of having a cultural component.
"We are also very pleased to be able to add a field trip to our summer reading program," she said. "We didn't have a field trip last year. We think this will serve to create greater interest in the program."
According to the Institute's website, "The Institute of Museum and Library Services is the primary source of federal support for the nation's 123,000 libraries and 17,500 museums. The Institute's mission is to create strong libraries and museums that connect people to information and ideas. The Institute works at the national level and in coordination with state and local organizations to sustain heritage, culture and knowledge; enhance learning and innovation; and support professional development."

BYLINE: Randall T Burns, Special to "The Item"

Holiday hours.....

2010-12-11T08:50:00.000-08:00

Hard to believe, but Christmas is fast upon us. Because the holidays, Christmas and New Years, are falling on Saturdays the library will be closed on December 25th and January 1st. The library will also be closed on Monday December 27th and Monday January 3rd. Beginning the week of December 20th and through Friday December 31st the library will close at 5:00 PM daily. If you have questions about our holiday hours, please call us at: 803.484.5921.

More Christmas cheer.........

2010-12-08T09:23:00.000-08:00

Special thanks to our friends at the Lee County Farm Bureau Woman's Committee. Pictured are Laura Haddon and Mary Adele Tomlinson putting touches to the Agricultural Tree they put up in the library foyer.

The tree features peanuts, soybeans, corn and (of course) cotton. Come down to the library and check it out - as well as a great selection of cookbooks and decorating books for the holidays!

It was a chilly morning......

2010-12-04T09:51:00.001-08:00

frost
Originally uploaded by pollyalida

It started out to be a beautiful winter day. It was crisp, clear and cold with a hint of frost on the fields. Who knew that it was going to turn into a red letter day?

On Wednesday last, when I got to work, I thought that the rest of the gang was acting strangely. After I had put my stuff away my director, Dawn Ellen, handed me a big envelope from the SC State Library. Ordinarily large envelopes from the state library are not a good thing so I opened it gingerly. The cover letter started:

“Congratulations! I am pleased to inform you that your application for a grant of Library Services and Technology Act funds has been approved.”

What happened next involved shouting, leaping, dancing and some tears. The entire staff spent the rest of the day on cloud nine. We just never expected that our grant proposal could win out against the larger libraries in the state. What a great endorsement for Lee County and the Lee County Library.

Now we have to get busy and design the programs that this grant will fund. We will be featuring a lot of new programs for children and teens emphasizing education and cultural events. We can’t wait to get started so pay close attention to this weekly column and the blog to keep informed as we roll out the new programs.

Christmas Has Arrived @ the library.....

2010-11-30T09:19:00.000-08:00

Everyone who knows our Director, Dawn Ellen, knows her decorating acumen!! It really shows during the holiday season. Make it a point to come down to the library and get some holiday spirit!!

We also have a huge selection of cookbooks, decorating books and lots of holiday magazines.

Bring you little ones, so they can be dazzled with our decorations and check out their own holiday books!

Check out the rest of the pictures here:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/leecountypubliclibrary/

Contest Deadline approaches......

2010-11-27T08:06:00.000-08:00

Attention Gentle Readers:

If you are participating in the “Letters About Literature” contest please have your entries turned into the library by Tuesday December 7, 2010 so that I can mail them in time to meet the deadline. We are really looking forward to seeing the submissions from our young readers – and we hope to be announcing a national or state winner representing the Lee County Library!

Happy Thanksgiving all........

2010-11-24T08:40:00.000-08:00

**Photo Caption: Ms. Carol-Anne Anderson and her son Joseph, age 7, enjoy a moment in the library reading area.**

The Library Ladies would like to wish the entire community a warm and wonderful Thanksgiving. The library will be closed on Thursday November 25th and Friday November 26th. We will reopen on Saturday November 27th.

It's more than books @ your library.....

2010-11-24T08:07:00.000-08:00

The library has several resources for resume building. Using the Kuder Personal Pathways software available to us we can build a resume, do a cover letter and search for jobs all at one website. Oh yeah, best part….it’s FREE!!

This website is quite a bit more than just resume writing. With Kuder, you can follow a self-guided, step-by-step process to plan your next career move. It starts simply by learning about yourself– specifically what you like doing (interests), what you are good at (skills), and what is important to you in a work environment (values).

With our comprehensive, user-friendly, and Internet-based solution, you can explore new career directions, plan for future education, seek current job opportunities, and even apply for financial aid. All of the information is uniquely tailored to your needs based on how you register with the system and identify your occupational background and employment situation.

This service is available for free. However, an appointment must be made to use this service. That is because of the intensive nature of the on line assessment procedure. Appointments can be made by calling Elizabeth at 803-484-5921 Tuesday through Saturday. Please allow a least one hour for the needs assessment. If you need a resume built allow more time.

It's all good @ the Library....

2010-11-20T11:13:00.000-08:00

Last week Debbie Tindal, who is a Community Employment Specialist at the Department of Social Services, and I went to the Richland County Library to participate in a workforce exchange. This was a great meeting bringing together several libraries as well as state agencies who are concerned with helping South Carolina’s unemployed and underemployed.

Debbie and I have been working informally with her clients for over a year. The clients come to the library for training in resume building, computer skills and job searching. We have had some successes, but this meeting helped show us how we can improve our services, measure our successes and build on the foundation that we have formed. We are both really excited about taking this opportunity and expanding our services; not only to the DSS clients but to the entire community.

Library Use Calculator with Curtis Rogers. ....

2010-11-16T12:53:00.000-08:00

This is great video showing the true value of your local library - featuring our pal Dr. Curtis Rogers.

Thought provoking!!

A fun New Contest.......

2010-11-10T11:53:00.000-08:00

How has an author's work--novel, nonfiction, poetry--changed your view of the world or yourself? What did you learn about yourself that you didn't realize before reading the author's work? Don't write a book report. The author already wrote the book and knows what happened. What the author doesn't know is how you reacted while reading the book. Write about that--your response in a reflective, personal letter to the author! That is the LAL (Letters about Literature) writing challenge.

Each year, LAL awards thousands of dollars through state and national prizes, as well as LAL library grants. Last year, 70,000 young people entered. For more information on how you as a young reader or how your students can enter, come to the library and ask Elizabeth for the guidelines and entry coupon. Let's put the Lee County Library on the state and national map!!

Deadline for this year's competition:

DECEMBER 10, 2010

And the Winner Is.......

2010-11-09T07:20:00.001-08:00

For the past three years the Lee County Library has won the statewide photo contest held each year during Library Week. For three years we have won the Best Overall, Most Humorous and gotten three honorable mentions. These contests are sponsored by the South Carolina State Library and all the county libraries compete. Our photos have been published in both state and national publications.

This year, during the South Carolina Library Association annual meeting in October we were awarded not one, but two Presidential Citations to honor these achievements. Because it is a statewide competition to win top honors for three years is quite an accomplishment. We were thrilled by the recognition and thank the SCLA for the honor.

“I was so surprised and shocked when they called me up the second time that I didn’t know what to say,” Director Dawn Ellen said, “I just sort of stammered ‘thank you’ and ran off the stage!”

We also thank our patrons who allow librarian Elizabeth the chance to take their picture. All of our photos are candid shots and with them we try to portray our library in it’s true light – as a community meeting place where curiosity is welcomed and encouraged.

More from the Halloween Fall Festival,,,

2010-10-26T13:08:00.001-07:00

Lee Count Americorps
Originally uploaded by Lee County Public Library - SC

We had a great turn out and want to thank the community and the organizations that came out and supported us. An especially big shout out goes to the Lee County School District’s Building Bridges Americorp team who arrived with 12 students to help organize and assist Chamber Director Pam Kelley and Librarians Brenda Brisbon and Elizabeth Snyder Powell. Because of their help the activities flowed smoothly.

More from the Halloween Festival

2010-10-25T09:23:00.000-07:00

The next event was the stuffed animal contest. This event was ably judged by the members of the B.A.R.K (Bishopville Animal Rescue Krew) team headed up by the ever effervescent Tom Kerr. I unfortunately did not get the names of the winners in this event but if the young ladies will come into the library or call I will acknowledge their wins in a future column.

Trunk a Treat Unqualified Success!!

2010-10-24T11:03:00.000-07:00

It was a delicious bright blue October day last Saturday. Out at the Grammar School Park, though, it was all witches, princesses, a Chucky or two and various ghouls and goblins! That’s because the Lee County Library and the Lee County Chamber of Commerce were hosting the first annual Halloween Festival Community Day.

We had a great turn out and want to thank the community and the organizations that came out and supported us. An especially big shout out goes to the Lee County School District’s Building Bridges Americorp team who arrived with 12 students to help organize and assist Chamber Director Pam Kelley and Librarians Brenda Brisbon and Elizabeth Snyder Powell. Because of their help the activities flowed smoothly.

The first event was the Halloween Costume Contest. The library has been hosting this for years at the library but this year it was fun to have it outdoors in the warm October sun. We had about 50-60 entrants and all of them showed creativity and imagination in their various costumes. The winners were:

Most Original .................. Nicholas Dolen
Scariest ......................Cole Huggins
Best over all .................Preston and Christian Seeby

Friends of the Library Week proclaimed..........

2010-10-15T08:20:00.000-07:00

Governor Mark Sanford has declared October 17th – 23rd as “Friends of the Library Week.” Following is the proclamation:

WHEREAS, libraries are an essential part of the fabric of communities throughout the state and they link us to one another and to the ideas and events of yesterday, helping us prepare for tomorrow, and serving as a sanctuary in which we are free to read, write, and dream about events and ideas of the past, present and future; and

WHEREAS, libraries have become powerful equalizing forces in society where every visitor is welcome and knowledge is free to all regardless of personal wealth or position; and

WHEREAS, Friends of the Library groups energize libraries by enhancing their services and capabilities in communities across the Palmetto State; and

WHEREAS, Friends of the Library volunteers give their time and talents to sponsor recreational and educational programs for children and adults and organize book sales and other events to raise funds to meet special library needs.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Mark Sanford, Governor of the Great State of South Carolina, do hereby proclaim October 17-23, 2010, as

FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY WEEK

What Mr. Sanford has proclaimed, the Lee County Library has always known. Our local Friends of the Library are true and valuable friends. They have supported our programs both monetarily and with enthusiasm. This is a great opportunity to say thank you to them and acknowledge their value to us and our appreciation of them.

The witch is in............

2010-09-29T12:40:00.000-07:00

Our favorite witchy-poo girl is in the house and promoting our "Trunk a Treat" event coming up on October 23rd. Make sure to mark you calendar! Call the library if you have questions, or you would like to participate. This is a community event - so the more the merrier!!

Banned Book Week.......

2010-09-25T09:24:00.000-07:00

September 25th marks the start of “Banned Book Week” In support of the right to choose books freely for ourselves, the ALA and The South Carolina State Library are sponsoring Banned Books Week September 25 - October 2, an annual celebration of our right to access books without censorship. This year's observance commemorates the most basic freedom in a democratic society-the freedom to read freely-and encourages us not to take this freedom for granted.

Since its inception in 1982, Banned Books Week has reminded us that while not every book is intended for every reader, each of us has the right to decide for ourselves what to read, listen to, or view. Many libraries will celebrate the freedom to read by participating in special events, exhibits, and read-outs that showcase books that have been banned or threatened.

Great new event!

2010-09-23T10:14:00.000-07:00

The library, in partnership with the Lee County Chamber of Commerce, is planning a "Trunk a Treat" program for Saturday October 23, 2010 from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM at the Grammar School Park.

"What's a Trunk a Treat," you ask? Well, instead of handing out your candy at your house, you put your treats in the trunk of you car and the youngsters come around to get their candy.

You can also decorate your car....and we will be having a judging contest. Stay tuned for more information about this program. We are planning lots of activities that day. So, mark your calendar for October 23rd - we'll look for you!

Cotton Festival Weekend

2010-09-21T10:39:00.001-07:00

Congratulations to the Lee County Chamber of Commerce for the great success of the Cotton Festival. A lot of time and effort went into putting on a weekend event and it all paid off.

Be sure to tell Pam Kelley and all the volunteers what a great job they did. They are already planning next years event!

Halloween!!!

2010-09-14T11:22:00.000-07:00

Well, Halloween is fast approaching and the library has some special events planned. Halloween is Director Dawn Ellen's favorite holiday so make sure you come to the library to check out the decorations. We always have the most interesting decorations! We are also planning some special events to be held at The Annex. Keep your eye on this column and I will be letting you know event times and dates.

We are losing a friend...

2010-08-24T08:53:00.001-07:00

We lost a friend
Originally uploaded by Lee County Public Library - SC

We are losing a friend today. Randy Burns reporter for the Sumter Daily Item is retiring today. Randy frequently filed his stories from the Library to save him time and relieve him from having to drive home.

We jokingly designated the conference room as "The Item Satellite Office."

Lee County has had it's share of discouraging news lately, but Randy always accentuated the positives about Lee County. he is a special friend to Lee County Library - his grandchildren and family always came to our programs and Randy always gave us great press coverage.

We will miss Randy's smiling face but we know he will be no stanger to us. We hope him great happiness in his retirement.

Summer Winding Down...............

2010-08-17T11:11:00.000-07:00

During the dog days of August the Librarians get a chance to regroup, rethink and reevaluate the programs and services offered at the Lee County Public Library. It’s going to be hard to achieve the success of the Summer Reading Program but we are pretty sure that we can.

This fall we will be offering new programs for children and young adults. We will have a schedule put together soon and will post it on the web as well as publish it here!!

We also invite the adult community in Lee County to contact us regarding services we offer. We have talking books, large print books and many other services available to us via the South Carolina State Library. In addition, we have Wii Fit, an interactive exercise program. Wii Fit combines fun and fitness into one product. It can change how you exercise, how you balance, and even how you move. We invite adults to contact us to utilize these services.

2010-08-07T11:48:00.001-07:00

If you see Librarian Brenda Brisbon around make it a point to thank her and congratulate her for a fabulous and successful 2010 Summer Reading Program. For eight weeks our summer readers had a selection of fun and worthwhile activities.

The final “wrap” party was held last Friday at the Annex. The readers ate pizza, played with the video games and received their certificates. It was a great afternoon for the youngsters and their parents. We thank everyone who participated in this year’s program for making it such a success.

In the near future we will be announcing our Fall Schedule of activities, so check the future columns.

Summer Reading 2010,,,,,

2010-07-31T11:18:00.001-07:00

Last week the summer readers attended an education program and picnic at Lee State Park. Conducted by Ranger Laura Kirk, the program consisted of taking samples from the pond and then examining them under the electron microscope. This is the fourth year we have gone out to the part and Ranger Kirk always shows us a good as well as educational time! The youngsters love to see the invisible world that is opened up by using the microscope – a lot of creepy crawlies are contained in pond water!

We then had a picnic lunch at the pavilion with hot dogs and toasted marshmallows. The readers all had a great time – ummmm, so did the librarians!!

Our Condolences......

2010-06-26T11:30:00.001-07:00

Bayler Teal with his family.....
Originally uploaded by Lee County Public Library - SC

The Lee County Library Ladies would like to extend their condolences to the Teal family after the loss of their son Bayler.

Bayler was a joy of a boy and he will be missed by the entire community. We share our tears and our prayers with the Teal family.

Frog Prince - The Play!!

2010-06-24T09:14:00.001-07:00

Frog Prince - The Play!!
Originally uploaded by Lee County Public Library - SC

While I was out of town last week, the Lee County Library presented a gift to the community by presenting "The Frog Prince" a play presented By the Porkchop Players of Aiken SC.

We thought the play would be a great kick off for our 2010 Summer Reading Program and the summer readers loved it!! We also invited the entire community to join us and we are glad to report that many did!! We had a full house and everyone just loved the production.

Although the play is designed with young people in mind, many of the sight gags and one liners were aimed at the adults and the entire audiences was helpless with laughter.

We would like to thank our community for their continued support of our programs!!

Lee County Library philosophy...

2010-06-09T12:18:00.001-07:00

Tourist sign Mt Dora, Florida
Originally uploaded by TheSeafarer

Yep, this little sign sums it up for "The Library Ladies."

Brenda Signing up Patrons for Summer Reading

2010-06-09T09:31:00.001-07:00

Brenda Signing up Patrons for Summer Reading
Originally uploaded by Lee County Public Library - SC

It's sign up week all week for the Lee County Library Summder Reading Program. "Make a Splash @ Your Library"

Come down to the Library and enroll your children!!

HELP THE LIBRARY HELP YOU - CLICK ON ANY ADVERTISING YOU SEE ON THIS BLOG. BY TAKING A CLICK YOU MAY HELP US GENERATE A LITTLE INCOME!! THANKS!

Summer Reading 2010

2010-06-05T10:19:00.001-07:00

Original Oil
Originally uploaded by Lee County Public Library - SC

Now that the Summer Reading Program has been planned, it’s time to reveal the schedule. First off, this week is sign up week. In order to sign up for Summer Reading you must have a library card in good standing. Come to the library this week until Saturday and enroll your child to participate in the “Make a Splash @ the Library” summer reading program - a water related theme.

First up is a special production of “The Frog Prince” which will kick off the summer reading program. We have partnered with the Lee County Arts Council to offer this special program and we invite the community to join us.

“The Frog Prince” is a production of the Porkchop Players a professional children’s theater troupe from Aiken SC. Their interpretation of classic tales include a modern twist and lots of audience participation. Again, we are offering this live theater production to the community and we hope to have a good turnout. For more information, call the library at 803.484.5921 and ask for Brenda or Elizabeth.

The following is the rest of the summer reading program.

June 18th Craft Day
June 22nd Cooking with Darlas
June 25th Swimming at the Hope Center
June 30th Special Water Program with Jennifer Kelley
July 2nd Gaming at the Annex
July 6th Field Trip to Scape Ore Farm
July 9th Gaming at the Annex
July 12th Cooking with Darlas
July 16th Craft Day
July 21st Swimming at the Hope Center
July 30th Field Trip

Summer is heating up.......

2010-05-29T10:37:00.001-07:00

Chillin' out at the Library
Originally uploaded by Lee County Public Library - SC

Now that the school year has come to a close, we can concentrate on our summer activities for children and young adults. We are really excited about the Summer Reading Program. This years theme is “Make a Splash @ Your Library” and we are trying to plan our events so we have a water based theme.

First of all, to participate in the Summer Reading Program, you must sign up. The sign up week will begin on Monday June 7th and run until Saturday June 12th. In order to participate you must have a library card in good standing – that’s it! Pretty easy. If your child does not have a library card, this is a great time to get one. All you need is an ID showing that you live in Lee County. Anyone under 18 must have a adult to be responsible for them.

Now to the planned programs! We are so thrilled to be hosting a live theater presentation by “Porkchop Productions.” Founded in 1991, Porkchop Productions is a professional theatre company specializing in audience participation performances. Their interactive approach to their performances make for a one-of-a-kind theatre adventure! They will be presenting “The Frog Prince” on Thursday June 17th at 10:00 AM at the Bishopville Opera House. The performers have taken a well known tale and added a few modern twists as well as lots of audience participation. We hope that this performance will help instill a love of live theater in our young people. There really is no substitute to live theater.

Tech Savvy - Facebook privacy

2010-05-08T09:16:00.000-07:00

This is a great video on setting your privacy profile on Facebook. With Facebook changing so frequently it is hard to keep up. They are now sharing a lot of your info to third parties - beware!!

PR Exchange 2010

2010-05-05T08:14:00.001-07:00

PR Exchange 2010
Originally uploaded by South Carolina State Library

Librarian Elizabeth attended the PR Exchange on Tuesday. She learned a lot and had fun too!!!

That's a win-win.

State Librarian David Goble once again reminded us that we are the "first responders" for information technology. Even though we know that, it's always good to be reminded.

More Goodies @ the Library

2010-05-01T11:08:00.001-07:00

Summer's End
Originally uploaded by Lee County Public Library - SC

The "Library Ladies" have decided to eliminate paperbacks from the shelves so that we can free up some space.

This is good news for the citizens!! While supplies last we will be giving away these books. It's a win - win here people.

So, come on down to the library and grab some paperbacks while they last!!

That's a wrap.....

2010-04-28T07:34:00.001-07:00

Director Dawn
Originally uploaded by Lee County Public Library - SC

Well, that's a wrap for the SC State Library's Annual Photo Contest. Our library walked away with three wins - "Best Overall" (shown), Most Humorous" and "Honorable Mention." Are we proud?? You betcha!!

We celebrate our library not with awards, but with the daily interactions that are depicted in these photos. We strive, daily, to offer a welcoming environment that encourages curiosity and life long learning.

We are pleased as punch that we won this annual contest, but we remember, always, that our patrons are our most important mission.

Give a hoot - lobby your local representatives to stabilize library funding. Your librarians need you!!

Working in the library

2010-04-14T10:46:00.000-07:00

Randy Burns the Lee County reporter for the Sumter Daily Item has started using the library to file his stories. We all think this is super cool, because we love Randy, we love The Item and they both give us great coverage for our events and fundraisers!!!

Thanks guys.

Now this looks like fun......

2010-04-08T11:36:00.000-07:00

With all the youngsters out on spring break it seemed like a good time to open the annex in the afternoons for some gaming fun.

In the clip above, the kids are knocking themselves out playing "Rock Bank."

Just another day at South Carolina's finest library!!

Spring Break

2010-04-08T09:43:00.000-07:00

The Library Annex will be open in the afternoons all this week for your gaming pleasure. We have Playstation 2's and Wii's all warmed up and ready for your use.

Come down and visit Librarian Brenda, and get your groove on. Will post pictures later.

Spring has sprung.....

2010-03-20T07:37:00.000-07:00

The Friends of the Lee County Library are planning a Book Sale on Friday April 16th and Saturday April 17th. The hours will be 4:00 – 8:00 on Friday and 10:00 – 4:00 on Saturday. The Book Sale will be held at the Library Annex.

As a special treat during the book sale, we are thrilled to announce that Mr. Jack Bass will be holding a book signing on Friday night. . Mr. Bass is the author of the definitive biography of Strom Thurmond. He has recently published The Palmetto State, The Making of Modern South Carolina. This book promises to become a classic. It also serves as a valuable point of entry for inquiries into the state’s diverse and complex heritage.

The Friends of the Lee County Library are also conducting their annual membership drive. By joining the Friends you help support the Lee County Library and its many worthwhile projects. Each day the Library offers citizens help with resumes and job searches, we offer training in software and conduct classes – not to mention just the general reference help, the printing and copying services and the ever needed homework help. Please support the Friends of the Lee County Library by joining. We hope to see you at the Book Sale!

Ahhhh, Spring!

2010-03-06T10:35:00.001-08:00

Easter Sunday Tulips
Originally uploaded by suesue2

Finally spring seems to have arrived in Lee County and the “Library Ladies” are hard at work planning new programs for the warmer weather.

The Annual Easter Egg hunt will be held at the Lee County Library Annex on Saturday March 27th at 3:00 PM. The Library Annex is located at 102 Nettles Street. It was formerly “The Garden Gates” gift shop.

The Easter Egg Hunt has always been one of our most popular programs and this year we will be expanding it to include games and prizes. Mark you calendars now for this event, and we will be adding information in the coming weeks.

A message from the Director of the SC State Library.

2010-03-03T10:56:00.001-08:00

SCLA Conversations - David Goble on Vimeo by SC Library Association
Originally uploaded by Lee County Public Library - SC

A timely and informative short from David Goble regarding important issues to the South Carolina library community.

Friends of the Library

2010-02-23T14:44:00.001-08:00

New Art Work
Originally uploaded by Lee County Public Library - SC

The Friends of the Lee County Library are in the planning stages for a book sale scheduled April 16th and April 17th. Last years book sale was a great success. This year we have even a wider selection of gently used and new books. This a great time to look for bargains and pick up your favorite authors to enhance your library!

New Release shelf,,,,,

2010-02-20T08:32:00.001-08:00

New Release shelf
Originally uploaded by Lee County Public Library - SC

If you haven’t visited the Library lately and are looking for some newly released books this is the time to come down. Our new release shelf is bursting with books that we have just received. Librarian Missy has been cataloging all week. It’s good to know, also, that if you would like a new release book that you do not see, we can put your request on our “wish list” and order it for you!!

And the Winner Is........

2010-02-13T07:51:00.001-08:00

And the Winner Is........
Originally uploaded by Lee County Public Library - SC

Ms Pamela Nelson won our Valentine Raffle for a specially made Candycake. Librarian Brenda Brisbon graciously donated one of her creations to help support the "Care Center" in Bishopville.

Thanks Brenda!

Again, this was a win/win for our community.

Social Networking......

2010-02-05T07:42:00.001-08:00

Blue and white
Originally uploaded by ashlie conway

Isn't that a great picture? The picture was taken by Ashlie, my newest contact on Flickr. I 'met" A on Twittter - another social networking site.

Social networking is a way to expand horizons. Most likely I would not have met A - or several other interesting people without social networking. Given the age and location difference there is little way we could have met without the benefit of social networking.

There have been a lot of false/misleading reports about social networking. Like anything else, it come with its own inherent dangers, but if you are and adult responsible person, the concept opens doors that are not available anywhere else.

Hope you have enjoyed the picture. Thanks, A.

Words to live by!!

2010-01-30T09:27:00.001-08:00

Words to live by!!
Originally uploaded by Lee County Public Library - SC

I attended the PLAD (Public Library Appreciation Day) at the South Carolina State house on Wednesday January 27th. Librarians from all over the state came together to impress upon the State Legislators the importance of libraries to the citizens of the state.

I am writing this on Saturday. We are fortunate to be open on Saturdays since we lost one librarian during the last round of budget cuts. It is because the librarians rallied and shifted around that we are able to open on Saturdays.

Today is cold, cold, cold and very rainy. So far today I have helped a patron set up a Facebook page, another an e-mail account as well as handing out tax forms, answering questions and helping a high school kid get enrolled in extra credit classes.

Not to mention the six homeless guys we give shelter to on bad days.

Where will the homeless guys be tomorrow - I don't know - because of the budget cuts we can no longer open on Sundays.

At PLAD, SC Library Director David Goble called the state librarians "first responders." How right he is! We are on the front line of information technology for most of our citizens. We help with resumes, help with job searches, offer training in software - not to mention just the general reference questions printing/copying services and homework help..

Take the time to contact your state legislators. It is important for them to know how valuable your library is to you. We are here for you when you need us - please try to be here for us now!!

Budget Cuts to Affect us all

2010-01-22T07:55:00.001-08:00

Pretty Flower
Originally uploaded by Lee County Public Library - SC

Libraries have received major state and county budget cuts because of the economic downturn.

****State aid has been cut 41% in two years from $2.25 per capita to $1.32 per capita.

****Similar revenue cuts, sometimes harsher. have come from local counties.

As money is dwindling, ironically, libraries face record-breaking, double -digit increases in the demand for service. (Also a result of the economy.

Libraries are often the only resource available in a community to help people laid off, displaced, furloughed or desperate for assistance.

It is up to you to contact your state and county representatives to help protect this valuable resource. The Library is always here when you need us - now we need you to be with us when we need YOU!!

My Lowcountry 3 Book Club: The Help (pt 1) | WSAV

2010-01-12T08:08:00.000-08:00

Check out the link - will take you to the video of the WSAV book club with Holly Bounds and Amanda Brewer. LC Library hopes to be participating soon!!

My Lowcountry 3 Book Club: The Help (pt 1) | WSAV

Catchin' some Z's..........

2010-01-08T13:14:00.001-08:00

Chillin' out at the Library
Originally uploaded by Lee County Public Library - SC

One of our favorite patrons taking a little nap in the reading area.

Reading Rooster Recommends January 8 2010

2010-01-08T12:20:00.001-08:00

Thanks to our friends at the State Library.

Welcome to 2010

2010-01-08T08:05:00.001-08:00

Pretty Flower
Originally uploaded by Lee County Public Library - SC

Between holidays and vacations, it has been awhile since the Lee County Library posted to the blog. But, we're baaaack!!

What's new? Well, we will be having a Valentines Day raffle to benefit the "Care Center" in Bishopville. To enter the raffle you only have to bring non-perishable food products to donate. We will be posting a picture of the prize once your blogette gets her camera working.

We will have lotso new programs for children and young adults.

We are trying to organize a on-line book club in partnership with Beaufort County Lilbrary and WSAV television in Savannah. This could be totally cool, and I hope we can pull it off. First book is "The Help"

Our new year resolution - keeping up with the Blog!!!!

Reading Rooster Recommends December 15 2009

2009-12-15T09:17:00.001-08:00

From our friends at the state library!! Thanks guys.

What Makes a Library a Library, Volume 1

2009-12-11T09:33:00.001-08:00

Check out this video. A great video from "the unquiet library." Hmmm, librarians who don't mind noise?? What a concept.

Read @ Your Library Campaign

2009-12-10T10:27:00.001-08:00

Read @ Your Library Campaign
Originally uploaded by Lee County Public Library - SC

Wayne Reynolds is our "Poster Dude" this month, the last month of the year. Wayne is one of our most faithful borrowers. Plus he's a great guy to talk to.

Dawn and Breon

2009-12-08T08:38:00.001-08:00

Dawn and Breon
Originally uploaded by Lee County Public Library - SC

The Lee County Library Ladies love a success story! We love it even more when we are part of the story, or helped to achieve the happy ending.

We are lucky to have our student intern Breon Stephens who is an 11th grade student at the MLD Higher Learning Academy. We have known that Breon is a special young man for a long time. Before he was our intern he was a frequent flyer here at the Library; coming in most afternoons after school. Now Breon has been honored for his hard work in a tangible way. He recently received the Superintendent’s Award for Academic Achievement and several other awards at a ceremony at the Academy. We know that Breon deserves any honors he gets since he has shown his hard work ethic and devotion to studies for a long time to the “Library Ladies.”

It's cold but it's worth it.....

2009-11-24T10:00:00.000-08:00

How much fun is this - seeing old friends and making a bunch of new ones. Thanks Bishopville.

Please forgive typing and spelling errors - hands are freezing, but the donations are keeping us warm.

Llve blogging

2009-11-24T09:10:00.000-08:00

Whooo-hooo. We are out in front of the Piggly Wiggly, freezing our tuschkas off, but making a difference. Our favorite manager, AJ just donated 25.00 worth of canned goods - that's a BUNCH of canned goods.

Thank pigglyy wiggly pals.

We are live....

2009-11-24T08:04:00.000-08:00

Brenda and Elizabeth are live at the beautiful downtown Piggly Wiggly in Bishopville SC.
The "Raffle Road Show is on the air.

Come down, bring us canned goods and enter to win.

A raffle for a good cause......

2009-11-12T12:25:00.000-08:00

This is your opportunity to do good and possibly win BIG! Bring your food items to the library and take a chance on this beautiful "Candy Cake!!" All donations will be given to the Lee County Co-operative Ministries' "Care Center" drawing will be held on Tuesday November 24th. Each food item is worth one chance.

Anniversary to note......

2009-11-10T07:33:00.001-08:00

Originally uploaded by wolffriend333

There is an anniversary I would like to note. Today is the 40th anniversary of the airing of " Sesame Street ." When my children were young " Sesame Street " had just started its fifth year. What was wonderful about those early years was that besides being a great learning tool for children, it was also just plain great television. Each day I could spend an hour with my children at 4:00PM and both generations would be entertained. (It is my humble opinion that Bert and Ernie are the best comedy team around!) The writing, the music and the comedy were just superior. I have not had an opportunity in years to see the program; and I know it has changed, but I still have happy memories of watching it with my little ones.

Don't even get me started on Mr. Rogers!
Thanks to wolffriend333 in Camden for use of the photo via flickr.

Dr Randy Watkins

2009-10-22T12:18:00.001-07:00

Dr Randy Watkins
Originally uploaded by Lee County Public Library - SC

Everyone's favorite English/Spanish instructor is this months Read @ your Library campaign poster child.

We love Randy, he is a frequent flier here at the Library. He also makes regular use of the State Library and is able to peruse the State Library Catalog by using the link we provide here at the blog. Pretty nifty..

Thanks Randy for agreeing to participate.

Had a great weekend @ Lee County Cotton Festival

2009-10-20T09:20:00.000-07:00

The Library partnered up with the Lee County Chamber again this year to help put on a terrific Cotton Festival.

Congratulations to the Chamber staff for their success, we know how much hard work you put into it.

Check it out:

New Stufff.......

2009-10-17T09:26:00.001-07:00

Just a reminder, gentle readers, the Library is running the "Guess the Candy in the Jar" contest and the drawing will be on October 29th. To participate you must be 12 years old or younger and check out at least three books.

Also the annual Halloween Costume contest will be on Friday October 30th from 4:00PM - 6:00PM. The judging will be at 5:00PM so make sure you are at the library if you want to be judged. As always, Librarian Brenda will be presiding over the popcorn popper and we will be handing out the popcorn to all the trick or treaters!

It's Funny and Timely!!!!!

2009-09-25T07:39:00.001-07:00

Banned Book Week!!!!!!

Banned Book Week.......

2009-09-22T12:59:00.000-07:00

Once a year, libraries around the United States salute intellectual freedom by highlighting books that have been banned or challenged in school libraries and public libraries. Banned Books Week, which is September 26 – October 3 this year, celebrates our freedom to read materials which may have controversial content or unpopular viewpoints.

You would expect to see books such as Lolita and Harry Potter on the list, but many of the books frequently challenged in schools and libraries are surprising. Here are a just a few examples:
The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald
The Clan of the Cave Bear by Jean Auel
The Invisible Man by Ralph Ellison
To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger
A Wrinkle in Time by Madeline L’Engle
Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark by Alvin Schwartz
The Chocolate War by Robert Cormier
King & King by Linda de Haan
The Adventures of Tintin by Hergé
Walter the Farting Dog by William Kotzwinkle (one of my personal favorites)
Come to the library and check one of the banned books out. Open your mind by getting to know a different point of view.

Celebrating Constitution Day......

2009-09-17T14:18:00.000-07:00

Okay, I'll be the first to admit that this is a crummy video. But, hey (!), it's the first one I have done using a new gizmo - so I am forgiving myself. Alittle more practice and the quality will improve!!

Anyhoo, this was shot during the nation-wide celebration of Constitution Day on September 17th. Churches were encouraged to ring their bells at 4:00PM and here in Bishopville the Bethlehem United Methodist Church participated. Spearheading this effort was Mrs. Frances Drayton. We rang the bells 222 times. Once for each year since the original signing in 1787.

We are always happy to participate in community events.

Librarian: superhero for information-saturation

2009-09-08T12:37:00.000-07:00

Each September, as students head back to the classroom, the American Library Association urges people to get and use a library card. Smart people, those librarians.
Here are some reasons why you should be putting a library card to good use:

1. You are already paying for it. During these tough economic times, why would you pay double for something? A 2008 poll showed library usage at an all-time high.
2. Save money. While you may want to own a few favorite titles, do you really need all those books? Anyone who has ever moved will tell you, “Moving boxes of books stinks.”
3. You get to try titles and genres you might otherwise miss. You may not want to plunk down $20 just to find out you that you detest the latest craze in vampire romance novels.
4. Reading broadly makes you smarter. Studies have repeatedly shown that vocabulary development, language acquisition and background knowledge are all improved in those who have been exposed to a variety of information.
5. You can get more than books with your library card. The library offers an amazing array of products and services: DVDs, CDs, magazines, newspapers, movie nights, computer use, homework help, college prep, after school programs, kid & teen programs, author visits, career planning, and free classes. Many libraries are beginning to feature audio books, eBooks and even eMovies that are downloadable from your home computer.
6. Libraries are better than bookstores. If the bookstore doesn’t have a title or subject you are searching for, you can get it through Interlibrary Loan. This even works for international titles! The library also has 24-hour online access. Bookstores close, but you can access databases and reference information while sitting in your pajamas.
7. Free WiFi. No more wardriving or mocha latte obligations for you.
8. They will bring the books to you. Some libraries will deliver titles you request right to your mailbox and many neighborhoods have bookmobiles. Think of it as the corner ice cream truck, only less fattening.
9. Libraries will give you free money. Most library cards offer perks like discounts to museums, zoos and art galleries in your community.
10. Librarians are hot. While you’re there, getting your shiny new library card, remember to hug the librarian. They hold the keys to unlocking our mass of information, the superheroes of our information-saturated society

Oscar Mayer "Wiener" Ad 1965 in COLOR (THE BEST CLASSIC AD IN THE USA)

2009-09-08T11:21:00.001-07:00

I am working on trying to get the "Wiener Mobile." how cool would THAT be!!??

Reading Rooster Recommends September 3 2009

2009-09-04T11:37:00.001-07:00

It's a trend.......

2009-09-03T09:19:00.000-07:00

First came "Price and Prejudice and Zombies" new to be released: "Sense and Sensibility and Sea Monsters." The latest Jane Austen mashup. Can't WAIT so see what they come up with next!!

Have IM on the Blog.......

2009-09-02T13:19:00.001-07:00

Well, we finally have IM on the blog. Scroll down to the bottom and ask a question!!

New Program......

2009-09-02T10:15:00.001-07:00

We have yet another new program in the works. We would like to offer a Wii Fit program for adults. Wii Fit uses a unique platform peripheral called the Wii Balance Board, allowing the software to, among other uses, calculate body mass index (BMI) when told the user's height. The game has about 50 different activities including yoga poses, push ups, and other exercises. Furthermore, Wii Fit allows its players to take body tests and compare their results without the game disc. Wii Fit tracks a user's "Wii Fit Age" through a body test basing the result on the user's current age, weight and athletic ability.

This is awesome software. If you are interested in participating, please call the the library. We will base the schedule on the level of interest.

Ahhhh -- the lazy blogger

2009-09-01T07:30:00.000-07:00

In a phenomenon that occurs every year in the week before Labor Day, bloggers across America file pointless, content-free "filler" blogs, enabling the lazy scribes to hit the beach earlier, according to observers who have been following this trend.

The "filler" blogs are churned out in a matter of minutes with no loftier goal than meeting a deadline and filling up space -- meaning that bloggers will often resort to using the same words or phrase again and again and again and again and again.

And rather than doing any original writing, the slothful bloggers will rely on so-called "experts" to supply them with quotes to fill up space, experts say.

"They'll often quote people you've never heard of," says Harold Crimmins, an expert in the field of filler blogs. "It's pretty shameless."

The typical "filler" blog is often a reprint of a previously published column, but the writer will later plug in one cursory reference to current events, such as the health care reform controversy, to disguise this fact.

And in order to fill up space even faster, Crimmins says, the lazy beach-bound blogger will compose his summer "filler" columns with short paragraphs.

Many of these paragraphs will be as short as one sentence, he says.

"Or shorter," he adds.

There are other telltale signs a reader can look for in order to determine whether a writer has, in fact, filed a so-called "filler" blog, according to Crimmins.

One of these is a tendency to repeat information that the reader has already read earlier in the article, with columnists even stooping to using the same quote twice.

"They'll often quote people you've never heard of," Crimmins says.

Another tip-off is if the blog ends abruptly.

my thanks to andy

It takes a village.

2009-08-25T08:49:00.001-07:00

Mr Dixon
Originally uploaded by Lee County Public Library - SC

We Love all our patrons - but Mr. Dixon is very special. Every week he brings us a pound cake. (How Great is that??) Mr. Dixon is a dedicated gentleman and his greatest interest is to return prayer to the schools.

He has a kind soul and is always so sweet to us. He lifts our spirits with his kind word.

Thanks Rev.

It takes a village....

2009-08-25T08:28:00.001-07:00

Breaking News.........

2009-08-24T10:48:00.000-07:00

We will commence opening on Saturdays starting September 12th. So, we will be open each Saturday from 9:00 AM to 3PM starting on that date. We are extremely happy to offer this additional service. We were saddened when we had to stop our weekend hours due to budget cuts. During the summer it was logistically impossible to keep open on the weekend - but now that Summer Reading program has concluded we can adjust staff around to fill the void. So, make sure to come down and visit on Saturday starting September 12th.

Its All good........

2009-08-21T11:13:00.000-07:00

It's ALL good this fall around the Library, (Thats the way we like it!!!) We are planning arts and crafts programs and senior fitness classes using our Wii.

Stop in to see us to get all the details.

Moving on....

2009-08-21T07:50:00.000-07:00

I just added a Lee County Library Fan page to Facebook. It's attached to my profile so swing on over and become a fan.

it takes a village......

2009-08-19T12:27:00.001-07:00

it takes a village
Originally uploaded by Lee County Public Library - SC

The Lee County Library would be lost without the help of our volunteers. Zack Medlin is one of our most talented and loyal vollies!!! He always brings a smile and happy attitude when we ask him (many MANY times) to fix, adjust and install items for the Library.

Special thanks to Zack and all the people who help us maintain the Library!!!!