Items filtered by date: November 2024

by Suzanne Manners, Wilkes County Librarian

It seems fitting that this book, published in 1968, has been chosen to celebrate the birthday of Oles Honchar (born April 3, 1918), especially given the recent political developments regarding our country's withdrawal of support for the war in Ukraine. While Honchar’s book, "The Cathedral," is not a war novel, it is significant to note that it was banned in Ukraine during the Soviet regime.

Meet Tom Baker at the Wilkes County Public Library on March 28 at 3:30 p.m.

Tom Baker, a celebrated author and dedicated advocate for veterans, brings his compelling stories to life in this special discussion. His works, The Hawk & the Dove and Wannabe Warrior, explore themes of resilience, service, and personal transformation. Don't miss this opportunity to hear from an inspiring storyteller who bridges literature and real-life experiences!

by Suzanne Manners, Wilkes County Librarian

William “Billy” James Collins was born on March 22, 1941. He is best known for serving as the United States Poet Laureate from 2001 to 2003. Additionally, he was New York's State Poet from 2004 to 2007. Both state and national poets are responsible for increasing public awareness and appreciation of poetry through reading and writing.

by Suzanne Manners, County Librarian

During February, don’t forget to show your love for your library! This month, libraries are nationally celebrated for their value in the community. You may be familiar with the saying, “It’s not a house; it’s a home…” In a similar vein, we can say, “It’s not just a building that houses books; it’s the heart of the community!”

by Suzanne Manners, Wilkes County Librarian

February is a month that celebrates the birthday of Abraham Lincoln, the 16th president of the United States. Additionally, we commemorate the literary birthday of Henry Adams, who was born on February 16, 1838. The connection between Henry Adams and Lincoln is noteworthy, as Henry lived during Lincoln's presidency and had access to firsthand accounts from that time. Furthermore, Henry comes from an extraordinary presidential lineage; his great-grandfather, John Adams, served as the second president, while his grandfather, John Quincy Adams, was the sixth president.

by Suzanne Moore, Wilkes County Librarian

Wilkes County Public Library is excited to promote "Food for Fines" during the week of January 13-18.  At this time, library patrons are encouraged to bring undamaged and unexpired, boxed, or canned non-perishable food items to the library. We also welcome donations of pet food, as dogs and cats need to eat too!

This month's featured author is John Lukacs, born on January 31, 1924. His book, Five Days in London, May 1940, recounts Winston Churchill's initial days in office as Britain's newly elected Prime Minister. Lukacs is known for his ability to portray complex events and situations with remarkable clarity.

by Suzanne Moore, County Librarian

A library renovation project begins in mid-October and is expected to be completed in early 2025.   The improvements will utilize the current space to expand services and modernize appearance.   Most importantly the project includes the installation of an upstairs bathroom.   The original building plan only provided restroom facilities for patrons on the main floor.  Everyone is looking forward to having a bathroom upstairs!   Other renovation highlights include a new stage (wired for sound) to hold concerts and programs and a podcast studio for staff and patron use.

by Suzanne Moore, County Librarian

Celebrate Library Card Sign-up Month this September with Wilkes County Public Library and the American Library Association! We're inviting everyone to discover the incredible resources and opportunities available at your local library by signing up for a library card.

This year, we’re thrilled to have Optimus Prime from the TRANSFORMERS as our special ambassador, highlighting that there's more than meets the eye at Wilkes County Public Library. Whether you're looking to enhance your skills, find valuable information, or connect with fellow avid readers, a library card unlocks a world of possibilities.

by Suzanne Moore, Wilkes County Librarian

Check out some good books and join us for cool events to help you through the “dog days of summer.”  There is something at the library for everyone and as of our last count, 597 children have signed up for this year’s program “Adventure Begins at Your Library.”

The library is hosting a Lunch & Learn program on May 22 at noon, and all are invited to attend. The Health Foundation and Recovery Revolution’s Crisis Intervention Team will be speaking about our county's response to the opioid epidemic. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently reported that drugs claim almost 300 lives every day. Attendees will learn about the stigma surrounding addiction and treatment, life-saving Naloxone, and facts about Fentanyl. Lunch will be provided, so registration is required. Please call 336.838.2818 x232 to register.

by Suzanne Moore, County Librarian

Bob Dylan, one of America's most beloved folk-rock icons, turns 83 on May 24, 2024. He is widely regarded as the greatest songwriter of all time and was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 2016. In addition to his music career, he has pursued other interests, including painting, distilling, ironworking, and acting in several films.

Wilkes County Public Library and Friends are organizing a special event to honor National Poetry Month. The event will take place on April 30, featuring Jaki Shelton Green, North Carolina’s Poet Laureate. Starting at 4:00 p.m., Wilkes County Friends of the Library will provide refreshments and host Green for a Meet & Greet in the library. At 5:30 p.m., Green will read aloud her poems and talk about her work as the state poet, followed by a brief Q&A session. Suzanne Moore, Wilkes County Librarian, said, “We are proud to have our State Poet here to help us wrap up the end of National Poetry Month. She has some powerful stories to tell with her poems and hearing them spoken adds even more depth and beauty to the written words.”