Libraries offer great learning resources

Personally, I am clinging to these final seconds of summer vacation. But, a good percentage of our local population has already made the shift to scarves, class schedules, and long-sleeved shirts. Some of us may not be ready for that, but we also know that fall does require some advance preparation, even if we’re not ready to let go of summer quite yet.

One example of this is The Library’s volunteer force, particularly the academic tutors. Our Lifelong Learning Center has been busy all summer, but things really ramp up when the back to school bell rings. Tutors need to hit the ground running when that happens. Now is the time to contact The Library about volunteering as a tutor.

A tutor can have a profound impact on a child’s life. Not only does it dramatically increase their chances of success in the class for which they are getting help, but it also paves the way for future success and higher self-esteem.

In her United Way Blog, Mei Cobb shared five reasons why you should want to be a tutor.

1. Tutoring works. One-on-one tutoring, in concert with the teacher’s curriculum, over time makes a measurable difference for students.

2. You get more than you give. Volunteer tutoring is rewarding. You have the chance to make a real difference in the life of a child and ultimately, the greater community. Volunteer tutoring is easy and fun, and you get to experience your student’s positive responses and growth.

3. You’re the expert. Volunteers get to share what they know, not only about the subject matter, but how success in school has made a difference in their lives.

4. It’s flexible, and predictable. Most tutoring programs will ask for an ongoing commitment.

5. All eyes are on you. Every child loves attention, and tutoring allows you to provide it. The attention can bolster the student’s sense of self-worth and self-confidence. And, students who form good relationships with tutors may feel more positively about relationships with teachers and parents.

East Bonner County Library District provides excellent training, private tutoring rooms and administrative support. There are even more perks to volunteering as a tutor.

“A lot of people find that mentioning their tutoring experience on their resume or college application gives them an edge in achieving their goals as well,” says Mike Bauer, Lifelong Learning coordinator.

Find out how you can make a difference in someone’s life by contacting Mike at 208-265-2665 or email him at mike@ebonnerlibrary.org. Inquire about any skills you have that you would like to share, but we currently have a specific need for geometry, algebra, and basic 6th-10th grade math tutors. Also consider helping us out as a volunteer at our weekly Homework Lab starting September 25th. Contact Suzanne Davis for details: 208-263-6930 ext. 1211.

The Library also provides an abundant array of classes, workshops and events for all ages. All of the following programs take place at the Sandpoint branch unless otherwise indicated.

- Saturday, Sept. 1 — Sandpoint Friends of the Library Book Sale, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. We are having a BIG sale; all of our electronic media is featured at especially low prices, including CDs, DVDs, books on CD, games including Nintendo, Play Station and Wii. We are also featuring non-fiction and sci-fi at half price, and in the mystery world, all James Patterson are offered at 4 for $1.

- Tuesday, Sept. 4, 11, 18 and 25 — Mother Goose, 10 a.m. in the new glass program area in the Children’s Department. New format, six sessions, Sept. 4-Oct. 9. Stories and singing for babies and toddlers 0-3 years old and their caregivers with stay and play until 10:40 a.m. Note that Mother Goose starts 15 minutes earlier. Information: 208-263-6930, ext. 1211; or suzanne@ebonnerlibrary.org.

- Tuesday, Sept. 4, 11, 18 and 25 — Preschool Stories, 11 a.m. in the new glass program area in the Children’s Department. Stories and crafts for kids and their caregivers. Information: 208-263-6930, ext. 1211; or suzanne@ebonnerlibrary.org.

- Tuesday, Sept. 4, 11, 18 and 25 — Intro to Virtual Reality, 3-6 p.m., drop-in 20-minute sessions. Explore the world with Google Earth VR, swim in the deep sea, go on a virtual tour, play arcade style games or walk a plank suspended from an 80-story building — all from the safety of the library. First come, first served. Under 18 must accompany parent consent form. Under 14 must be accompanied by parent/legal guardian. Information: Contact the Tech Desk, 208-263-6930, ext.1251.

- Wednesday, Sept. 5, 12, 19 and 26 — Intro to Virtual Reality, 3-7 p.m., drop-in 20-minute sessions.

- Wednesday, Sept. 5, 12, 19 and 26 —Clark Fork Stories and More, 10:30 a.m. at the Clark Fork branch. Stories, crafts, prizes and snacks for kids ages 3-8. Information: 208-266-1321.

- Wednesday, Sept. 5 — 3D printing workshop, 4-6 p.m. at the Clark Fork branch. Design your own 3D printed object. Also learn some fascinating ways 3D printers are being used. Space is limited and pre-registration is required: 208-266-1321.

- Saturday, Sept. 8 ­— Library garden work day, 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Thelibrary is building a new community educational grden and we need your help. Show up to help get this project to take root. Information: Mike Bauer, 208-265-2665.

- Saturday, Sept. 8 ­— Bella Note musical program – summer highlights, 10:30 a.m. Bella Note students of various ages who studied music over the summer will perform. Everyone will enjoy a small group activity at the end of the performance, time permitting. Part of a monthly series running through December. Future programs will take place on the first Saturday of each month with a different musical theme geared for families with young children. Information: 208-263-6930 or suzanne@ebonnerlibrary.org.

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