Expand your horizons @yourlibrary

In an ever-shrinking globe, knowledge and experience of the world is becoming something of a life prerequisite. Things like travel, politics, economics and culture are all areas of universal importance, but it can be a daunting task to keep informed.

But don’t worry, the Gravenhurst Public Library has everything you need to learn about the world!

When planning to travel abroad, your first stop should be at the library. The library has many country profiles, an invaluable aid when travelling abroad. Also, the library holds travel guides and books to various countries and specific locations, such as the Adventure Guide to Aruba, Bonair and Curacao. And don’t forget to pick up some great fiction novels — set in the country you are travelling to — for those many hours spent on the plane or in the airport.

Parents, look no further. The library also boasts a great kids section. Learning about other countries and about the culture of the peoples who live there can be an important step in developing your child’s mind. The juvenile fiction section presents information in a way that kids will enjoy and understand, and will teach them about diversity and respect.

For the more serious academic or lifelong learner, the library offers a great collection of books about world politics, economics and cultures, ranging from Israel to Morocco, to Honduras and Cambodia. All focus on social, political and cultural studies unique to the region. The library also has an interesting collection of materials on the two World Wars and the war in Korea.

So whether you are looking for information for a school geography project, are interested in international politics and issues or just want to find out what’s going on “out there,” the library is the perfect place for you to start — and finish — your information journey. The world awaits!

Valentine’s Day, Feb. 14 is a day to think of others and we would like to take this opportunity to thank all of our teen volunteers for their dedication. Even though they are exchanging volunteer time for community hours credit, they also enrich our programs with their ideas, comments and suggestions.

During 2007, the library saw over 4,420 children, youth and accompanying adults attend our registered, drop-in and special event programs, as well as outreach programs for organizations within the community. The programs included class visits from our four local schools, reading programs, storytime, toddler/baby, after-school, preteen and teen programs. Much time is needed for preparing activities, and volunteers enable us to do the extras that make the children’s visits memorable.

We have been fortunate to have 12 students that signed up last fall for volunteering. Many of their tasks such as cutting craft pieces, making posters, assisting the programmer during programs, shelf reading, computer projects and more help us to provide quality programs.

Thank you volunteers, you do make a difference.

Family Fun Fest – Library Olympics is on Feb. 9. This free program from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. is for the whole family. Wear bright coloured hats and mittens to participate in the family games, crafts and activities. Everyone is sure to have lots of fun winning prizes. A light snack will be provided.