12 things to try at The Library in 2019

| December 28, 2018 12:00 AM

With 12 brand new months ahead of us, we all have a chance to try something new this year. Now is a great time to think about how you can get out of your comfort zone — unless your comfort zone is in The Library. In that case, you may just want to shake up your routine.

Are you the guy who only comes in to grab a stack of DVDs for weekend binging? Are you the mom who brings the kiddos in for picture books and story times? Do you ever venture past the Teen Lounge? Maybe you’re a couple who makes a b-line for the newspapers and a good spot by the fireplace.

Whatever routine you’re in, maybe you’re not getting all you can out of The Library. And, if you aren’t in the habit of using your library yet, get with the program! You’re not still paying for Spotify and Netflix when you could be streaming music and movies in the Digital Library, are you?

If you’re ready to hit the refresh button on 2019, here are 12 things you can try:

1. Virtual Reality — VR has so many benefits beyond gaming. It is being used in medical, finance, marketing, manufacturing, and lots of other Industries. It is a valuable educational, training, and communications tool. Try it out at The Library under the caring supervision of our staff who will help you navigate this technology that is rapidly becoming mainstream.

2. Genealogy — Researching your family tree is a fascinating hobby. MyHeritage, a genealogy database in the Digital Library, is a good place to start. It’s easy to use and has millions of historical documents, photos, and other resources to help you in your search.

3. A new language — Chan-ces are, you’ve toyed with the idea of learning a new language. Mango Lan-guages offers over 70 different languages and uses a fun, integrated approach. Take a tour and then download the app for mobile learning. Find it in the Digital Library at ebonnerlibrary.org.

4. Volunteering — You probably can’t imagine the ways The Library can put your skills and passions to work for our community. From tutoring and teaching classes to shelving books and organizing events, there is an opportunity waiting for you. Stop in and ask for more information, call 208-263-6930, ext. 1281, or check out our volunteer portal at ebonnerlibrary.org.

5. Electronic versions of whatever you are using now — You may enjoy reading, watching, playing, and listening to physical materials from The Library. There is nothing wrong with that. But, you may be surprised at how convenient and enjoyable the same materials are in electronic format. You can find digital versions of books, audiobooks, magazines, newspapers, maps, music, movies, and games in the Digital Library and never worry about overdue fines again. Once you’re there, you can filter your search by category or content and watch short tutorials on how the digital materials work.

Don’t let the five bullet points fool you. That was 12 new things to try in 2019 (if you count the eight items in point #5). Check out the classes and events schedule below to see how you can get a head start on trying something new from The Library. All take place at the Sandpoint Library unless otherwise noted.

- Fine Forgiveness Week — Now through Sunday, turn in your overdue materials and fines will be waived. Disclaimer: this does not apply to lost or damaged items. Some have reported excessive joy after experiencing Fine Forgiveness Week. Thicker wallets have happened. Consult your librarian for a free trial.

- Saturday, Dec. 29 and Saturday, Jan. 5 — Explore Virtual Reality — reservations, 2-4 p.m. Reserve a 15-minute session in the new VR room at ebonnerlibrary.org/Events on the event listing. Under 18 must accompany parent consent form. Under 10 must be accompanied by parent/legal guardian. Info: Contact the Tech Desk 208-263-6930, ext.1251.

- Monday, Dec. 31 — The Library is closing at 5 p.m. for New Year’s Eve (it’s midnight somewhere).

- Tuesday, Jan. 1 — The Library is for New Year’s Day

- Wednesday, Jan. 2 — Clark Fork Stories and More,10:30 a.m.; stories, crafts, prizes and snacks for kids ages 3-8. At the Clark Fork branch library , 601 Main.

- Wednesday, Jan. 2 — 3D printing workshop, 4-6 p.m. at the Clark Fork branch library . Design your own 3D printed object and learn some fascinating ways 3D printers are being used. Space is limited and pre-registration is required for this beginner-level class: 208-266-1321.

- Thursday, Jan. 3 — Movie morning, “Frozen,” 11 a.m.; enjoy a free family favorite winter movie and make a snowflake craft to take home! Info: 208-263-6930, ext. 1211; or suzanne@ebonnerlibrary.org.

- Friday, Jan. 4 — Clark Fork Mother Goose, 10:15 a.m. at the Clark Fork branch library . A special story time for babies and toddlers followed by 20 minutes of play time. Info: 208-266-1321.

- Saturday, Jan. 5 — Sandpoint Friends of the Library Book Sale. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

It’s a chance to support your library while supporting your book habit at the same time. Score deals on used books and media at the monthly Friends of the Library sale.

- Now through March 1 — The Library’s Winter Reading Challenge; toddlers through teens. Register for the Winter Reading Challenge to log your reading and read-to-me time for prizes, drawings, and a party! Details at ebonnerlibrary.org. Contact Suzanne Davis for more information: 208-263-6930, ext. 1211; or suzanne@ebonnerlibrary.org.

- StoryWalk — Pages from a children’s book are posted along a trail for a fun, family experience. Enjoy “King Bidgood’s in the Bathtub” by Audrey Wood at Dover City Park and “A Hat for Minerva Louise” by Janet Morgan Stoeke at McNearney Park. Read, connect, and get outside at a StoryWalk, a partnership of The Library, Kaniksu Land Trust, city of Dover, and city of Ponderay. For more information, visit Facebook.com/BonnerStoryWalk.

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.