By Rhett Grant, Library Director
Many remember the library as a quiet place. That is not the case today.
We have computers for children, puppets, and toys. Rather than shushing kids, we welcome the sounds of children enjoying the library. Recently a parent apologized for a noisy toddler only to have the librarian apologize, saying, “Sorry, I was showing him the games.” Even adults are allowed to talk. We do request that cell phones not be used in the library.
The library today is a buzz of activity with programs for all ages. We have books groups, board games, craft programs, knitting and crocheting groups, a variety of music programs and performances, story times, and science and technology programs.
This summer we were visited by Ronald McDonald and had a story time with Batman. Summer Reading ends next week with a pool party. The librarians will be slimed.
On a quieter note, we have outreach programs to Vancrest nursing home, donate canned goods to the food pantry through Food for Fines, and are developing an outreach program to the homebound.
This year the library will be transformed with a renovation and expansion project, all paid for with a dedicated fund. Starting this month, and ending on Feb. 28, 2018, we will expand the library. Much needed space will be added to the north, along with a new parking lot, and an outdoor reading area.
Throughout construction we will remain open. Children’s books will move into the Snyder Room for the first phase of construction. Rhett and Natalie will move also.
Through hard work and perseverance, Mrs. Stambaugh and others took a collection of books in the women’s restroom and created the Ada Public Library. As she sought to expand the library’s base beyond the original all female readership by finding books for farmers, school children, Sunday schools and others, we want to appeal to all the people of Ada.
We offer computers, wireless internet access, community rooms, programs, and notary publics. We have books, e-books, CDs, DVDs, magazines, and newspapers. Search for your Ada yearbook pictures or browse newspaper articles in the digital collection.
Or, if you want a book, we can get the one you want or make recommendations.
