People often forget that we have this great resource here in the Kern River Valley for FREE research, knowledge and entertainment. I had the opportunity to ask questions of Elisebeth Duvall, the branch supervisor of our local Kern County Library.
What is the official name of our local library: Kern County Library – Kern River Valley Branch
Who are the key personnel? Elisabeth Duvall, Sabina Cail, Chris Meichtry, Vickie Fish, Lisa Carillo, Joe Wagner
We know our local library is special and it’s more than just checking out books, but what are some of the most exciting and unique programs available to adults and children?
The most exciting and unique programs available to adults & children are vast. For children we offer hands-on stem/steam programs such as science, slime and sewing. For adults we offer yoga classes, paint nights, guitar lessons and even a home book delivery service in conjunction with Aging and Adult Services. For teens we have a robust teen program that meets twice a month, and we have a Dungeons and Dragons program twice a month. In addition, we are honored to be able to bring in various vendors ranging from professional singers, to jugglers, magicians, and wild meet and greets with a wide range of animals. However, what makes all of our programs unique is that we are able to offer them to our community for FREE.
How is our local library funded?
Our local library is funded through Kern County General Funding and through Measure K funds. Thanks to funding from Measure K, Kern County’s Unincorporated Public Safety, Vital Services, and Local Control Measure, the Library Department is able to provide additional materials, programs, technology, and staff reinforcing the library’s commitment to prioritizing literacy and creative learning opportunities for all ages.
How can our community help or contribute to our local library?
Our community can help us greatly by coming to our programs, checking out materials and spreading the word about all that we offer. Literacy is very important and all the programs that we offer are for the express goal of promoting literacy within our community. However, while the library is a great community hub, we offer more than just books and programs. We also offer faxing, color / b&w wireless printing, scanning, and we have a wide range of digital services.
What are some things you would like us to know?
We would love for our community to know about all that we have to offer as a library. We want everyone to know that we are more than just books. While literacy is vital, we also have fun, well thought out programs for all ages. For example, June and July this year we have over 200 awesome programs lined up for all ages to escape the summer heat and have a fun, free outing. Our summer reading program Read, Renew, Repeat will launch on June 1st. The challenge is to read 10 books or 10 hrs over June & July. In addition, during the next two months, the library will host a range of free activities for children, teens, and adults to encourage and support a love of reading. Participants can win prizes for reaching their reading goals. We’ve planned a wonderful program for kids to make the library a great place to read, learn, and discover what’s available for their enjoyment. Themed events include a wild meet and greet with exotic animals on June 4th, a Mobile Zoo on June 18th and even free lunches for children ages 2 to 18 every weekday from 11:30 to 12:30. While we have a fun summer planned, there’s also a serious side to summer reading. Research has shown that reading over the summer prevents summer reading loss. Studies also indicate students who read recreationally outperformed those who don’t. Students read more when they can choose materials based on their own interests. Our libraries are committed to supporting lifelong learning and educational enrichment for all families. Registration is currently open on beanstack and we would love to see all of our community join the challenge. We are hoping for 400 finishers this summer. To learn more about the summer reading adventure at the library, please call, visit our facebook page or check out our website at kernlibrary.org.
So make sure to take advantage of the free resources available at our local library!
