Library Insider - June 2026

OUTGOING OUTGOING LIBRARYBOARDMEMBER LIBRARY BOARD MEMBER

Killian Edwards Reflects on a Legacy of Library Growth

In your time serving on the board, what do you feel is your greatest accomplishment?

It’s such a team effort, with the awesome library staff and amazing director, Lisa, leading the way So, it’s not my accomplishments, but the overall success of the library system that I’m proud to be a small part of It has been so rewarding to help the system grow over time, with the addition of the North Hall Tech Center and now the new East Hall branch, which is set to open this summer. And it was exciting to see new vibrancy brought to the downtown headquarters branch when it was renovated Over the time I’ve been on the board (and off, and on again), the library has had to persevere through some pretty tough times the recession in 2008, numerous funding challenges, and of course, the COVID pandemic, which included everything from how to keep patrons and staff safe to how to furnish renovated areas when the global transportation system came to a screeching halt It’s just always been, “We’ll find a way to make it work ” And they do As board members, we work to offer insight, but Lisa and the staff always provide solid, creative options for us to consider Who better than librarians to research and craft solutions that meet each challenge as it comes, right? Our library system is flourishing, and that is a wonderful accomplishment and reward all around

What made you decide to serve on the board?

A chance discussion of books with someone who was rolling off the board presented the opportunity, and it took about two seconds for me to say I would definitely be interested Not to sound cheesy (okay, I’m cheesy), but I believe in the importance of libraries Information is more readily available than at any other time in history, but we need to ensure equitable access to that information for everyone We need to help teach kids (and adults!) about the joy of stories but also how to navigate through them and determine what is real and what isn’t We need welcoming “third spaces” that are engaging and available to all without an entry fee The library provides those things and so much more for our community Serving on the board is one way I can help support that, and I’ve been lucky to be part of it.

What does the library system mean to you?

I was a library kid growing up I’m a first-class word nerd, and my mother read more books and faster than any other person I’ve ever met We were regulars at my hometown’s library and checked out stacks of books every week In turn, I took my now teenage son to storytimes and summer reading programs, checked out picture books and then chapter books, and did crafts on rainy Saturdays So, libraries hold great memories for me, and I still check out books regularly But as an adult and as a board member, I’ve come to see the “more than just books” parts of the library Computer and internet access for everyone, informational presentations on everything from Medicare to genealogy, programs where you can learn towel origami, play with Legos, create a painting, build a terrarium, you name it I love that our libraries offer such a wide, interesting range of information and services and are places the community can, gather, explore, and learn

OUTGOING OUTGOING LIBRARYBOARDMEMBER LIBRARY BOARD MEMBER

Madison Gee’s Legacy of Literacy

What are your hopes for the library board to accomplish after your departure?

Looking toward the future, I hope the library continues expanding its outreach so that every person in our community has access to literacy, learning, and resources One thing we have discussed as a board for the future is mobile library services or bookmobiles that can bring books, technology, and programs directly into neighborhoods, schools, and community centers Not everyone can easily get to a branch, and I think meeting people where they are is one of the most powerful things a library can do As with any new project, funding is required and I believe the board and staff do an amazing job working to get funding and maximizing the resources we are currently able to provide Most of all, I hope community members see that the library is a place where they cannot only check out books, but also connect, learn new skills, discover opportunities, etc

What made you decide to serve on the board?

I decided to serve on the library board because I deeply believe in the power of literacy, lifelong learning, and access to resources for everyone in our community As a former first grade teacher, I saw how reading can change a child’s confidence and future I also love that libraries offer so much more than books. Many people don’t realize the incredible resources libraries provide, from educational programs and technology access to community support and opportunities for personal growth Serving on the board gives me the opportunity to help advocate for those resources and support a place that truly impacts people of all ages and backgrounds. As both an educator and a mom, I wanted to help ensure the library continues to be a welcoming space where curiosity, learning, and community can thrive

What does the library system mean to you?

The library means opportunity, imagination, and community to me As a former-first grade teacher, and a mother myself, I have seen firsthand how powerful early literacy is in early childhood development Libraries help spark that love of learning by giving every child access to books, stories, and experiences that open their world Since becoming a mom, the library has become even more personal to me. It’s a place where my children can explore, ask questions, discover new interests, and develop a lifelong love of reading I personally grew up going to the Blackshear Place Library and I couldn’t wait for summertime because of the Summer Reading Program But beyond books, the library is one of the few places that truly welcomes everyone regardless of age or background and provides resources, connection, and support for the entire community To me, the library is not just a building with books It’s a foundation for learning, growth, and belonging My hope is that everyone will step into their local library at some point in the near future to see what all they have to offer!

Digital Learning Hub

TUTOR.COM

Tutorcom connects you with a network of highly qualified and vetted expert tutors across a vast array of subjects. Whether you're a K-12 student grappling with algebra, a college student perfecting an essay, or an adult learner preparing for a new career, Tutor.com offers live, one-on-one help whenever you need it.

LOTE4KIDS

Expand your child's world with LOTE4Kids, a digital library now offering over 1,000 picture books in more than 65 languages. This popular app allows kids to learn and explore new cultures through the magic of storytelling, with stories read in both English and their native language.

FINANCIALFIT

Financial Fit from EBSCO is a comprehensive platform that empowers you with essential money management skills. Whether you're a young adult learning to budget or an adult planning for retirement, Financial Fit offers interactive modules to help you understand credit, manage debt, and make smart financial decisions.

AUDIO&EBOOKS AUDIO & EBOOKS

ThePalaceProjectappisaone-stop-shopfor ebooksandaudiobooks.Perfectforallreaders,it offersabroadrangeoftitlesfrombestsellersand classicstocontentin29languages.Useyour librarycardandPINtoaccessastreamlined interfacewhereyou'llalwaysfindsomethinggreat toreadorlistento.

Libbyisanaward-winningappthatgivesyoufree accesstothelibrary'svastcollectionofebooks, audiobooks,andmagazines.Withjustyourlibrary card,youcanbrowse,borrow,andreadorlistento titlesonyoursmartphone,tablet,ore-reader.

Libbyisperfectforfindingyournextpopular bestseller,catchinguponamagazine subscription,orenjoyingagreataudiobookon yourcommute.

eREAD KIDS SERVICE UPDATE

Beginning Dec 3, the eRead Kids ebook and audiobook collection will move from the Boundless app to The Palace Project app. Starting Nov. 18, patrons will no longer be able to check out eRead Kids items in the Boundless app but will retain access to existing checkouts All checkouts will take place through The Palace Project app beginning Dec 3 Item holds will not transfer to the new platform.

We apologize for the inconvenience. Learn more and download The Palace Project app at georgialibraries org/ereadkids

GEORGIA READS FOR AMERICA250

Celebrating250Years:TheGeorgia ReadsforAmerica250Challenge

Get ready to turn the page on history! As we approach the 250th anniversary of the United States, our library is thrilled to announce the Georgia Reads for America250 program This statewide initiative is designed to connect readers of all ages with the stories, people, and events that have shaped our nation over thelasttwoandahalfcenturies

TheprogramofficiallykicksoffonMarch3and runs through the end of the year Here is everythingyouneedtoknowtogetinvolved:

HowtoCompletetheGeorgiaReadsforAmerica250 Challenge

ThechallengerunsfromMarch3throughDecember31, 2026 Followthesestepstojointhecelebrationandearn yourprizes:

Step1:JoinYourAgeGroupSignupontheBeanstackapp orvisitthelibrarytogetstarted Therearefourcategories toensureeveryonecanparticipate:

Children:PreschoolthroughElementary MiddleSchool

HighSchool

Adult

Step2:ChooseYourBookReadatleastonebookfromthe officialAmerica250Booklistforyouragegroup This curatedlistof31titlesfeaturesstoriesthatexplore250 yearsofAmericanhistory

Note:Manyhighschooltitlesarealsoavailableinouradult collection,makingthemgreatsharedreadsforfamilies! Step3:CompletetheActivitiesTofinishthechallenge,you mustcompleteoneactivityfromeachofthesixactivity categorieslistedinBeanstack.Theseactivitiesare designedtohelpyouengagewithourcommunityand nationalheritage

Step4:CollectYourRewardsOnceyou’veloggedyourbook andactivities,stopbyanybranchtopickupyourfinisher’s kit: Anofficialcertificateofcompletion Acommemorativesticker Apatrioticsiliconebracelet.

EarlyBirdBonus:Thefirst10childrentofinishateach branchwillreceivealimited-editionGeorgiaReadstshirt(YouthLarge)!

Step5:EntertheGrandPrizeRaffleEverypersonwho completestheprogrambyDecember31willbe automaticallyenteredtowinanAmerica250GiftBasket WewilldrawonewinnerperagegroupinearlyJanuary 2027

Moreinformationcanbefoundonourwebsiteunder ReadingChallenges!

Adult

June2026

EventsGalore

We have programs and events catered to adults at all 5 of our library locations on a weekly basis!

Check our calendar HERE for a full list of events. Ourvibrantprogram scheduleofferssomething foreveryone!Diveinto crafting,painting,bookclubs, fiberarts,andinformative learningopportunities.We alsohostexcitingpartner events,thrillingDungeons& Dragonssessions,andso muchmore!

JUNE 2026

PROGRAMS & EVENTS: ADULT SPOTLIGHT

*requires registration

*Acrylic Paint Pour Class

Blackshear Place Library, Saturday, June 6, 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Rock Painting for Adults

North Hall Tech Center, Monday, June 8, 1:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.

*Diamond Art Workshop

Blackshear Place Library, Monday, June 8, 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Using Records to Locate Your Relatives Who Served in the American Revolutionary War Gainesville Library, Tuesday, June 9, 10:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

*Digging Deeper: Paleontology on the Georgia Coast

Gainesville Library, Tuesday, June 16, 11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

*Watercolor Class

North Hall Tech Center, Thursday, June 18, 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

S.A.R. Presents: The Flags They Flew Murrayville Library, Thursday, June 18, 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Indiana Jones Trivia Night

Blackshear Place Library, Monday, June 22, 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

*Build Your Own Terrarium

Spout Springs Library, Wednesday, June 24, 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.

*Dot Art Workshop

Gainesville Library, Saturday, June 27, 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

YOUTH

SUMMER PERFORMANCES

Experience performers of epic proportions!

Mondays

10:30 a.m. Spout Springs

1:30 p.m. Gainesville 6:00 p.m. Gainesville

MON JUNE 8 &

TUES JUNE 9

Mahealani’s PolynesianDance

Through interactive dancing, rhythm and storytelling, discover Māori culture like you've never seen it before!

DR. DINO

MON JUNE 15 & TUES JUNE 16

with MR. NIKO

You’ll rock through the ages while rocking to the beat in this toe-tapping, puppet-filled musical revue that educates as it entertains. Learn about differences between Carnivores and Herbivores all without being eaten!

MON JUNE 29 & TUES JUNE 30

Tuesdays 10:30 a.m. Murrayville 1:30 p.m. Blackshear Plac 4:30 p.m. North Hall Tech Ce

MON JULY 13 & TUES JULY 14

Wildlife Wonders presents

Dinosaurs

Meet birds, reptiles and maybe even a few mammals in this entertaining and educational program that explores the dino-relatives living among us!

MON JULY 20 & TUES JULY 21

Children will dig the comedy, magic and puppetry from Mr. Keith as he entertains with dino-mite magic show all about paleontology and archeology!

Step back 65 million years and experience the most realistic, interactive dinosaur encounter available! Big Idea Dinosaur Adventures brings the prehistoric world directly to you with animatronic dinosaurs, hands-on paleontology activities, and educational adventures that will leave kids (and adults!) absolutely mesmerized.

FORALL AGES

TTHE HE @@PPARK ARK FREEENTRY

JUNE 5 11:00 - 2:00 JUNE 5 11:00 - 2:00 AT THE LANIER CANOE & KAYAK CLUB AT THE LANIER CANOE & KAYAK CLUB 3105 CLARKS BRIDGE ROAD | GAINESVILLE 3105 CLARKS BRIDGE ROAD | GAINESVILLE

Come out and celebrate summer and Lake Lanier with an awesome community party!

THANK YOU to our partners!

Fun! So Much Fun!

Storytime at 11:15, 12:15 & 1:15

Lakeside STEM activities

Canoe, Kayak & Dragon boat Demonstrations

Live Animals from Elachee Lake Lanier History

Tour the Lanier Canoe & Kayak Club facility

Hot dogs & Popsicles and lots more! So

We Don’T Eat Storytime featuring a live appearance by Penelope Rex!

Storytime’s never been tastier!

Monday, June 1

North Hall Tech 11:00 AM

Tuesday, June 2

Blackshear Place 10:15 AM

Wednesday, June 3

Murrayville 10:15 AM

Elementary Art Workshop:

Sculpt a Dinosaur

Elementary-agedkids willcreatetheirown potteryprojectusing air-dryclayinthis guidedartprogram.

Clickheretoyregisterfor ourbranch!

Summer 2026

Storytime Schedule! June 8 -

Let'sPlayStoryt

Ages18months-5ye

Wednesdays10:15

July 25

Ages0-18months|Tuesdays10:15AM

Ages0-18months|Frid

JUNE 2026

PROGRAMS & EVENTS: YOUTH SPOTLIGHT

*requires registration

We Don't Eat Our Storytime with Penelope Rex!

Multiple locations, dates, and times!

Mahealani’s Polynesian Dance

Multiple locations, dates, and times!

Family Archaeology Party

Spout Springs Library, Friday, June 12, 3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.

*Cosmic Bingo for Families

Gainesville Library, Monday, June 22, 1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.

Curiosity Club: Beneath the Surface

Gainesville Library, Wednesday, June 24, 1:30 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Free Summer Lunch For Children

Blackshear Place & Gainesville, Multiple dates, and times!

World of Water with the Gainesville Department of Water Resources

Gainesville Library, Wednesday, June 10, 1:30 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Puppet Guy Productions presents Dr. Dino with Mr. Niko Mulitple locations, dates, and times!

*Elementary Art Workshop: Sculpt a Dinosaur

All Branches, Tuesday, June 23, 1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.

Summer Reading Performance: Magician Keith Karnok

Multiple locations, dates and times!

Digging

Unearth A Good Story

Navigating the Stacks and Unveiling Library Wonders

In The Gallery

Dawn Columbo

Dawn has been creating art since childhood. She believes the creative process is a playful expression that can help us connect with and heal the inner child. Dawn is a registered expressive arts therapist (REAT). She works with different populations with creativity to enhance overall well-being. This collection of paintings offers a lightness in representational art. Dawn calls this collection, “A little bit of whimsy.”