Marble Falls library writes book on culture with popular and educational programs
MARBLE FALLS – Despite some recent budget cuts, the Marble Falls Public Library continues to offer new programs or additions to old programs.
After an absence of several months, the library recently re-established the “Lunch and Learn” monthly program on Fridays in the library conference room.
The library, which is part of the Burnet County Library System, discontinued the sessions to help avoid a budget shortfall last year.
PHOTO 1: Marble Falls Public Library Assistant Director Amanda Rose says the 'Book Boutique' room in the library offers hundreds of old treasures for sale, including books and videos. Staff photo by Raymond V. Whelan
“It was a popular program,” Assistant Director Amanda Rose said. “People kept asking about it, so we decided to bring it back.”
Earlier in January, the program — now called “Leisure Learning 2012” — returned with author Donna Johnson as guest speaker.
The Austin-based writer discussed her memoir “The Holy Ghost Girl” before a large audience, Rose said.
“(Johnson) shared her story with us,” Rose said. “She pretty much captured the room.”
The program will continue to feature lunch and more speakers during upcoming months, she added.
More often than not, the speakers do not charge the library for an appearance, Rose said.
“They generously donate their time, because they are eager to visit a beautiful library in a beautiful area,” she added. “Each one of them has a different background. You never know which one might inspire you.”
Future speakers include retired Capt. Gilbert Bennett of the Houston Fire Department Feb. 24; author David Lindsey March 30; artist Margie Crisp April 27; author Amanda Eyre Ward May 18; and author Karen Valby June 15.
One educational program called “Crafty Ladies” recently started at the library, Rose said.
Instructors demonstrate how to make lamps and other items out of old books during the program, she added.
“It is pretty amazing,” Rose said. “If you’re crafty, you will want to come so you can express yourself.”
“Crafty Ladies” is set for the second Tuesday and third Wednesday of each month, Rose added.
Along with Marble Falls Independent School District students, the library plans to participate in the “Science Rocks” program April 12.
“It will be like a mini-science fair,” said Eileen Smith, the library’s youth services specialist. “It will be open to the public. We have a lot of plans for it. We are really excited about it.”
The program — which will be held at Lakeside Pavilion, 307 Buena Vista — will feature the Austin Mobile Planetarium and Discovery Dome, Smith said.
Also during “Science Rocks” day, the Burnet County Sheriff’s Office will display its forensic trailer, she added.
Thanks to a grant facilitated by Central Texas Library Systems, the Texas Alliance for Minorities in Engineering trailer plans to visit the library June 26. Various exhibits in the trailer will be on hand for all ages to enjoy, Smith said.
During recent weeks, the library staff decided to schedule two storytime programs for children 5 and younger.
“It has been well-received,” Rose said.
Story time is 10:45 a.m. Mondays and 10:45 a.m. Thursdays. Each session lasts about 30 minutes, Rose said.
Also, the library still offers hundreds of used books, videos and other materials for sale in the Book Boutique, located in a room near the main reading area. Prices range from 25 cents to $5 for items, all donated by library patrons.
Every third Wednesday each month, the library offers a two-for-one sale in the Book Boutique.
“It has a lot of old treasures,” Rose said.
All proceeds from boutique sales benefit the library, she added.
Furthermore, the Cinema Book Club meets in the library 11 a.m. the first Friday of each month.
The library, 101 S. Main St., is open 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday through Friday. Visit www.marblefallslibrary.org or call (830) 693-3023.
Other libraries in the county system include the Bertram Free Library, 170 N. Gabriel St. in Bertram; the Herman Brown Free Library, 100 E. Washington St. in Burnet on the Courthouse Square; and the Oakalla Public Library, 29011 FM 963 in Oakalla.
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