Summer Reading Time - Lots To See In Area Libraries

       When we were very young, we always loved going to the library, and that passion has carried into adulthood. Though we’ve graduated from the children’s books to more advanced material, visiting our local libraries remains one of our favorite summer activities. During a recent visit to W.T. Bland Public Library, located in Mount Dora, we were delighted to see all of the different ways that they are helping visitors to foster new interests, making themselves into a gathering point for a community united by their love of discovery.
        One of the most intriguing aspects of the library is its dinosaur exhibits (yes, you read that right)! Provided by Mount Dora-based Planet Earth Sculptures, a handful of prehistoric creatures now call the library home. Currently in the center of the library is a Nothronychus exhibit. Meaning "slothful claw", this creature is believed to have had fur and feathers, living in swampy forests. No less impressive is the Tyrannosaurus head located in the young adult room, providing for an awesome photo opportunity. It is a truly excellent way to liven up the space in an interesting way.
        Any good library has a proper section for young readers, and the W.T. Bland group has gone above and beyond the call of duty. They have recently expanded their children's department to include two new rooms, with engaging new activities and hundreds of new books on the way in the future. Also, they have a special area dedicated to helping the next generation discover a new interest, where a large television plays a documentary about a specific topic (it was about sea creatures on the day of our visit), and books related to the topic are nearby so that they can keep exploring these new areas of discovery. What a great way to get our tech-savvy juniors into reading!
        But there’s far more to do at the library than read and marvel at the decorations. They also provide a feast of programs and groups for anyone who is interested in trying something new or deepening their knowledge in a certain area. From crochet class, to art critiques, to ukulele lessons, to wood carving and so much more, there is bound to be some upcoming event that you may enjoy taking part in. The Lake County Library System’s website has a calendar that lists the programs’ days and times, for anyone who is interested.
        Author and library advocate R. David Lankes once said that while “good libraries build services, great libraries build communities.” I’m inclined to agree, and it is delightful to see the communities that are being built at the W.T. Bland Public Library. The fact that such a place exists to bring people together and connect them to that sense of adventure we all know is truly something to smile about.