SC Library

“I remember my grandfather taking me to the Saline County Library children’s programs when the Library was housed in the Palace Theater building,” Saline County Library Public Relations Manager, Kari Lapp fondly recalls. 

“Over the years, the programs have expanded to not only reading a story, but also to supporting children and parents through crafts, songs, and camaraderie.” The Saline County Library system has four locations that serve our community: Bob Herzfeld Memorial Library in Benton, Mabel Boswell Memorial Library in Bryant and the East End Branch Library in Hensley, and the Gann Museum of Saline County on Market Street in Downtown Benton.

Although the library system is a thriving organization, many people don’t realize the scope of programs and services it offers, especially for children. Leigh Espey, Library Director, knows the impact involvement in a local library can have on a child’s life. 

Espey shares, “In 2010, I began doing story times and helping plan and implement the bigger programs such as summer reading. It was wonderful being a part of so many children’s adventures at the Library. It is truly rewarding to see kids in the community grow up and continue to utilize the Library. We are an organization that ties everyone together, and through program offerings for all ages, the citizens of Saline County have a resource for lifelong learning and enjoyment.”

“Reading and telling stories with children promotes brain development and imagination, develops language and emotions, and strengthens relationships.” For over 20 years the Saline County Library has offered an array of children’s programs, but according to Wendy Christy, Youth Services Manager, the program has risen to a new level. 

“In 2015, we started having a more consistent summer schedule so that each age group had a program in Benton and Bryant each week. Around then, we also started doing more after school programming. We tried new things that sounded fun and just saw what worked.”

With the mission of putting the community and patrons at the center of its story, the Saline County Library’s vision is to: Enrich lives. Provide the unexpected. Be more. “Our Youth Services Department, consisting of a team of individuals who have experience working with children in educational environments, takes those statements to heart when creating programs. They are committed to providing programs and events that are accessible to everyone for free,” says Lapp.

This mission and vision are achieved through a variety of year-round programs for youth of all ages. 

National Library Week 

Held in April, National Library Week was designed to celebrate the many areas of the Library that help strengthen communities. During this week, there are special dress-up days for all ages, special contests, and a few themed programs for added fun!

Summer and Winter Reading Challenge 

June and July turn into a non-stop educational and fun experience during the Summer Reading Challenge. Every year, the summer is planned to match a particular theme by creating exciting events and programs and orchestrating challenges that, once completed, earn prizes. These events happen both at the Library and at surrounding areas with participating community partners. 

Library Card Sign-Up Month

September is Library Card Sign-Up Month! Over the past 8 years, this initiative has grown to include over 60 local businesses that offer special discounts with a current library card. 

Library Prom

Saline County Library has a large homeschool population that meets regularly. We started a Library Prom for our teens in the program so they could experience the “high school” prom. Community partners support the event by donating supplies such as food, decorations, dresses, shoes for boys and girls, and ties. 

Trunk or Treat 

The event starts out with a story time and then transitions to kids racing to the parking lot with their grown-up where themed decorated vehicles and costumed staff offer a fun game where every kid wins prizes and candy.

In addition to programs in the building, the Library hosts events and programs at various locations around the community to spread literacy awareness. According to Bella Holloway, Outreach Coordinator, it’s all about community. “Our most successful major events throughout the year always emphasize family and friends. Our inspiration centers around creating memories and experiences the whole family can remember.” 

Other programs the Library offers include the Halloween Costume Closet, which provides free costumes for kids of all ages. “The excitement a child expresses when they learn they can dress as their favorite character all year long is incredible and so sweet,” Lapp recalls.

Another popular feature is the Friends of the Library Used Book Store. The store opened on February 19, 2019, creating a space for the Friends of the Library to sort materials and allowing patrons to browse them easily. “We have patrons who come from all over the state, and out of state, to visit our Used Book Store and they leave with carts of books, audiobooks, games, DVDs, and even cakepans. Most items cost less than a dollar! This is a great resource for kids to grow their own little libraries at home, or for teachers,” adds Lapp. 

An all-time kid favorite is the beehive, which can easily be seen through the window of the children’s area. “The children love the beehive. Jeff Rosenbaum approached us about installing it after he saw how much the children at a local elementary school loved the one he had there. Jeff shows the children the queen, eggs, and baby bees and even lets them taste the honey,” says Christy.

For information regarding these and other online children’s programs provided by our Saline County Library, visit Salinecountylibrary.org/just-for-you/kids-corner.