By Paul Birkhead
Rowan Public Library
Have you driven by the library lately? If so, you might have noticed a distinct lack of parking.
Rowan Public Library has always been a popular place but it seems more and more folks are realizing just how much it has to offer. This is not just happening in Rowan County, either. All across America, people are rediscovering their local libraries.
In tough economic times, everyone seems to be more conscious about how they spend their money and often look for ways to save. Rowan Public Library has many services that can help save you money.
When you think about libraries, you naturally think about books. Are you wondering how it’s possible for books to stretch your family’s budget further? Here are some examples:
If you’re like most, going out to eat is becoming more of a luxury again instead of just routine. If preparing home-cooked meals has not been on your agenda lately, the library has hundreds of cookbooks that can help you get reacquainted with your kitchen.
Also, more people than ever are putting off purchasing a new vehicle, and as a result, more cars are being maintained by their owners. Did you know that the library has car repair manuals on its shelves? Not only that, Rowan Public Library can give you access to an online auto repair reference center.
It goes without saying that you can save money by simply borrowing the latest novel by your favorite author instead of purchasing it, but keep in mind that the library offers a lot more than just books.
If Internet access was the first thing to be cut out of your budget, you’ll be happy to know that the library makes the Internet available to you free of charge. Come in to any of our three locations and sign onto a public computer or bring your laptop to take advantage of our wi-fi connection. We even offer free computer classes to those who need help.
Maybe you’ve resolved to cut back or eliminate video/DVD rentals. Did you know that the library has shelves of DVDs that you can check out just like a book? Rowan Public Library also hosts a popular movie night each Tuesday at the Salisbury branch. Come watch a movie and eat some popcorn for what anyone would call an extremely affordable price ó free.
Computer classes: Classes are free. Sessions are 90 minutes long. Class size is limited and on a first-come, first-served basis. Dates and times are subject to change without notice.
Headquarters ó March 23, 7 p.m., Yahoo e-mail ó Beyond the Basics; March 26, 2:30 p.m., Open Office Up Close ó Impress.
South ó March 24, 11 a.m., Trip Planning.
Children’s Storytime: February-April, weekly story time. For more information, call 704-216-8234.
Headquarters ó Monday or Wednesday, 11 a.m., Tiny Tots and Moms (infants-18 months); Tuesday, 10 a.m., Toddlers and Kinfolks (18-24 months), and 11 a.m., Toddlers and Kinfolks (24-36 months); Thursday, 10:30 a.m., Three through Five; 4 p.m., Noodlehead (4-8 years).
South ó Monday, 10:30 a.m., Preschool Time (3-5 years), 4 p.m., Noodlehead (4-8 years); Wednesday, 10:30 a.m., Toddlers and Twos (12-36 months); Thursday, 10:30 a.m., Baby Time (0-12 months).
East ó Tuesday or Wednesday, 10:30 a.m., Preschool (2-5 years); Thursday, 11 a.m., Baby Time (6 months-2 years).
Teen program: East, Thursday, 5:30-7 p.m.; Headquarters, March 10, 5:30-7 p.m. Calling all teens for Teen Tech Week. Come to the library and show off your gaming skills by playing Rock Band 2 and other PS2 games. While you wait your turn, make a customized duct tape cover for you I-Pod or MP2 player.
Tuesday Night at the Movies: All movies are at 6:30 p.m. All movies are rated G, PG or PG 13; some movies are inappropriate for younger audiences. Children should be accompanied by an adult. Free popcorn and lemonade.Movies about basketball.
Tuesday, “Space Jam”; March 24, “Eddie”; March 31, “Like Mike.”
Displays: Headquarters ó artwork by Fred Young; South ó photography by DB Images, Daryl Brewton; East ó 4-H.Literacy: Call the Rowan County Literacy Council at 704-216-8266 for more information on teaching or receiving literacy tutoring for English speakers or for those for whom English is a second language.