Libraries dedicated to open access

You may not think the word information is very exciting, but when you contemplate its meaning, you might be inspired by the amazing possibilities that can sprout from embarking on a quest for knowledge.

The East Bonner County Library District, as part of our strategic planning process, has decided on a new marketing tag line: Information and inspiration. It conveys the library’s dedication to providing open access to educational resources and the humanities in a few words, but has deep meaning for individuals and the community at large.

Whether we seek information for the sake of trivial knowledge, to solve a problem or to improve our lives in some way, learning makes us grow. The library not only has materials, services and programs on a myriad of topics, we also have knowledgeable staff to guide you in your search.

Services such as Imagine Academy, an online Microsoft coursework and certification program, open up opportunities for career advancement. Opportunities like this can improve individual lives and enhance the economic viability of our community.

Such information found at the library can impact all of us in meaningful and measurable ways.

The library inspires people. For some time, libraries have been transforming into community spaces where people can connect with their families, neighbors and co-workers in new ways. The library embraces its role as a catalyst for community engagement and life enrichment with offerings in the humanities and programs that bring people of all ages and backgrounds together.

Fulfill your quest for information and inspiration with free materials, services and programs like the ones listed below. All of the following classes, workshops and events will take place at the Sandpoint Library, 1407 Cedar, unless otherwise indicated.

• Today through Saturday, June 18 — Clark Fork Scholastic Book Fair, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Buy one, get one free sale at the East Bonner County Library District, Clark Fork branch. Sponsored by the Clark Fork Friends of the Library.

• Saturday, June 18 — computer class on computer basics, 8:15 a.m. sharp. Learn about the parts of a computer, computer terminology, memory, navigation and accessibility. Preregistration required; call 263-6930.

• Monday, June 20 — Teen Make It at The Library, 3 p.m. Teens and young adults learn coding through fun with robotics, Arduinos and 3D printing.

• Tuesday, June 21 — Mother Goose, 10:15 a.m. A story/singing program for children ages 0 to 3 and their caregivers.

• Tuesday, June 21 — Preschool storytime, 11 a.m.; for children ages 2 to 5 and their caregivers.

• Tuesday, June 21 — Make It at The Library, 3 p.m. Kids create with robotics, Arduinos, needlework, Legos and other projects.

• Tuesday, June 21 — Bike repair workshop, 3 p.m. Learn basic repair techniques. For kids age 10 and up. Ids under 10 must be accompanied by an adult. Preregistration is required by June 20. Register by calling 263-6930, ext. 1211, or email suzanne@ebonnerlibrary.org.

• Tuesday, June 21 — 3D printing workshop for adults, 5 p.m. Learn what 3D printers are used for and how to design your own 3D printable object; beginner level class. Preregistration required; call 263-6930.

• Wednesday, June 22 — Clark Fork Stories and More, 10:30 a.m., East Bonner County Library, Clark Fork branch. Stories, crafts, prizes and snacks for kids ages 3-8.

• Wednesday, June 22 — Clark Fork Make It at The Library, 2 p.m., East Bonner County Library Clark Fork branch. Kids make a variety of age appropriate projects.

• Wednesday, June 22 — Wrangling Words Writers Program, 5 p.m. Monthly writer’s peer group with flash fiction activity. Meet other writers, explore the craft and learn how to develop your own path as a writer.

• Wednesday, June 22 — family football fun with Spokane Empire, 6 p.m., Memorial Field. Meet professional football players on the Spokane Empire team, play family flag football, enter a drawing for championship tickets and more!

The free family football fun is part of this year’s Summer Reading initiative, “On Your Mark, Get Set, Read!”

• Thursday, June 23 — Clark Fork Crafternoon; magnetic Silly Putty, 1:30 p.m.; craft fun for the family.

• Friday, June 24 — Teen Writer’s Club, 3 p.m. Get together with other young writers for writing activities and collaboration.

• Saturday, June 25 — computer class on basic Internet use, 8:15 a.m. sharp. Learn how to navigate the Internet and find online resources available on the library’s website.

• StoryWalk — Three StoryWalk locations and stories; visit Dover City Park, the University of Idaho Recreation Center and McNearney Park for reading, activities, fitness and family fun. A partnership of The Library, Kaniksu Land Trust, the cities of Sandpoint, Dover, and Ponderay and the Unviersity of Idaho.

Marcy Timblin is in charge of public relations, marketing & community development for the East Bonner County Library District. She can be reached at 208-263-6930, ext. 1204.