by Kelly McCabe, Youth Services Coordinator
It was a bustling day at the Moriarty Community Library when we made a Summer Reading visit in early July. Ashley Williams, Children’s Librarian, had planned a visit from the Wonders on Wheels mobile museum with their new exhibit featuring the new Eight Sites, One History: Explore the Past at New Mexico Historic Sites exhibit. Wonders on Wheels staff had extension activities in the library and a staff on-board to help families interpret the exhibit. In addition, Williams’ standing Mother Goose on the Loose storytime offered patrons and their caregivers the opportunity to sing, clap, read, and participate in a joyful morning of books. The New Mexico State Library recently offered a series of trainings for public library staff on the Mother Goose on the Loose early literacy program. Williams was already using the program, but the trainings offered her the opportunity to learn new songs and rhymes and refresh her general skills. It also
reinforced the importance of adding in child development tips for the attending parents and caregivers to help them prepare children to school. On the day of our visit a large group from the local Boys and Girls Club was visiting the library – and had lots of activity options from which to choose! Patrons participating in the Summer Reading Program can turn in their reading logs and bingo sheets for chances to win gift cards, bikes, and building sets. It’s been a colorful summer at the Moriarty Community Library and we thank them for sharing their day with us!