Amanda McLaren and her daughter Sophie joined our club meeting to update us on all that is happening at the Benzonia Public Library.
 
Amanda is the Director of the Benzonia Public Library which is located in the Mills Community House.  Club Members were impressed and inspired by Amanda's presentation, the Library is not only a place to read books but offers a wide variety of programs with the goal of "Preserving Yesterday, Enriching Today, Inspiring Tomorrow in our community".  
 
The Library offers a wide variety of activities for people of all ages.  There are a number of programs designed to inspire children including Guild of Makers, Craft of the Month, Kids Fun Day Carnival, Baby Play Time, Money Smart Kids, Lego Saturdays, Lego Building Challenge, Lego Palozza, Summer Reading Programs and other activities.  
 
Guild of Makers is  program for students 4th grade and up to come together and explore anything from new and innovative technology to traditional handicrafts.  The meetings consist of some discussion and instruction but mainly focus on creating in an open and safe environment.  Their motto is "If you can imagine it we want to help you make it!"  
 
Programs for adults include Computers with Dustin which provides computer training, a Knitting Group, and the Repurposeful Librarians which offers a variety of craft classes throughout the year.
 
The Library is a labor of love for Amanda and her family as her husband Jimmy can often be found helping out with kids programs, working on building renovations and helping with anything else that needs to be done.  Their kids are also very involved in helping and participating in the programs.
 
Renovations to the library were recently completed.  Funds were collected from a special renovations appeal last year to improve the children's room.  The new room is a magical place designed to inspire imagination and be a fun place for kids.  The walls have amazing murals by local artist Glenn Wolff.
 
If you would like to find out more about the programs offered at the Benzonia Public Library you can visit their website at www.benzonialibrary.org.