Grateful for Caring Volunteers

            The Calhoun County Library is proud to give back to our community—but the truth is, we couldn’t do nearly as much without the support of our gracious volunteers.

            For large events like Cookies with Santa, Boo Bash, and Grow with Me, our ability to serve so many families depends on the extra hands and hearts of volunteers. Without them, we would be forced to limit the number of crafts, snacks, or books we could share. Thankfully, we are blessed with a dedicated group of individuals who generously give their time to serve the county.

            To honor their hard work this year, we hosted a Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon at the close of our Summer Reading Program—our busiest season of the year. We felt it was important to recognize right away the long, hectic, and successful hours our volunteers poured into helping us. As a small token of gratitude, each volunteer was gifted a tiny Bonsai tree, symbolizing the way they nurture not only these plants, but also the minds and imaginations of the community members they serve.

            Without our volunteers, we simply wouldn’t be the library we are today. To all of our volunteers: thank you. We are truly fortunate and deeply grateful for your continued support.

The Fantastic End

 Calhoun County Library Summer Reading Finale

The Calhoun County Library held the Summer Reading Program Finale to celebrate the accomplishments the participants have completed at the end of July.

On July 31, 2025, after a program with magician and illusionist Jesse Greene, it was time to present the results of a wonderful Summer Reading Program.

First, we gave out Participation Certificates to everyone who registered and logged minutes and gave out Certificates of Excellence (Completion Certificates) to everyone who read 300 minutes or more. This was over 150 certificates designed, printed, and ready to hand out!

·         We had 138 participants in our Summer Reading Program.

·         We had 72 participants complete the challenge.

·         We read 101,176 minutes in total.

Then, we presented the Grand Prizes. For everyone 30 minutes read and logged, the participant got an entry in their respective age category. So someone who read 30 minutes still had a chance to win the end of the Summer Reading Program Grand Prize the same as someone who read 300 minutes, who just had more entries. We had multiple winners and we changed up the prizes this year.

·         Early Literacy: Elizabeth Ott and Lorelei Trotter (LeapPads)

·         Children’s: Rylee Strock and Shana-Yessenia Alvarez (Echo Dots)

·         Teen: Bailey Williams and Laionnah Poole (AirPods)

·         Adult: Heather Hess and Jon Coble (Kindles)

To complete the Summer Reading Program and start getting our county ready to go back to school, The Jeffcoat Law Firm set up a table to give away something amazing: over 150 backpacks filled with essential school supplies. These backpacks were completely free! We would love to thank The Jeffcoat Law Firm for their support and generosity to our community. With school starting, this was a huge help. Thank you, The Jeffcoat Law Firm.

This event still was not over. Of course, we had to give out free books and end the summer with ice cream as they exited the library with all of their other goodies.

The Summer Reading Program is completely free to attend and enjoy. We would like to thank everyone who came and volunteered. This project is made possible by a Library Services and Technology Act grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services administered by the South Carolina State Library.

Illusions for Local Summer Reading Program Finale

            The Calhoun County Library was full of magic and tricks that disappeared into thin air right in front of our very eyes at the Summer Reading Program Finale.

            On Thursday, July 31, 2025, local magician Jesse Greene performed for us through a billow of fog and mystery. We were excited to have Jesse amaze us as part of our Summer Reading Program Finale to have a great sendoff for a magical, colorful summer. What better way to do that than to have all kinds of colorful illusions?

            Even our very own staff members, Janice and Beth, joined Jesse on stage as his magician’s assistants. During their debut performance in front of a crowd of over 180 people, both were left astonished by Jesse’s sleight of hand, mind-reading skills, and his ability to reveal cards marked with unique, hand-drawn images. Jesse wowed the audience with a variety of impressive tricks. Among them were illusions like producing oversized objects from beneath small, seemingly empty steel cups. We won’t spoil too much—if you want to experience the full magic, you’ll have to catch one of Jesse’s shows for yourself!

            The Summer Reading Program is free and open to the public. The library also thanks all attendees and volunteers who helped make the event a success. This program is supported by a Library Services and Technology Act grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services, administered by the South Carolina State Library.

Calhoun County Library Hosts Colorful Paint Party for Summer Reading Program

            The Calhoun County Library recently brought creativity to life with a vibrant Paint Party as part of its Summer Reading Program, held on Thursday, July 24, 2025.

            Young participants kicked off the fun with do-a-dot markers and simple cardstock designs perfect for little hands. As they painted, the children were treated to a live musical performance by The Ukaloonies, who filled the room with energy and laughter. The musical duo kept the excitement going with interactive games, including a color game where children held up pieces of construction paper to match the colors sung in the lyrics. Favorites like “Singin’ in the Kitchen” and the classic nursery rhyme “BINGO” had everyone singing along.

            While the younger kids enjoyed their musical art session, older children and adults participated in a more structured painting experience in a separate room. Guided by Calhoun County High School art teacher Mr. John Sawvell, participants learned step-by-step painting techniques using brushes and canvases. Mr. Sawvell introduced various brush types and demonstrated specific painting methods, helping each artist bring a sunflower in a vase to life. Though everyone painted the same subject, each piece reflected a unique personal touch—highlighting the beauty of individual interpretation in art.

            The library extends a heartfelt thank-you to The Ukaloonies for their engaging performance and to Mr. Sawvell for sharing his artistic expertise. The event saw a wonderful turnout, proving that creativity comes in all ages and colors.

            The Summer Reading Program is free and open to the public. The library also thanks all attendees and volunteers who helped make the event a success. This program is supported by a Library Services and Technology Act grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services, administered by the South Carolina State Library.

A Wildly Fun Summer Reading Program at Calhoun County Library

            The past few weeks have been buzzing with excitement at the Calhoun County Library, thanks to two action-packed Summer Reading Program events that drew in fantastic crowds.

On Thursday, July 17, 2025, the library welcomed a dozen fascinating live animals as part of an unforgettable visit from the Critter Keeper. Known for his creepy, crawly companions and engaging educational shows, the Critter Keeper delivered not one, but two packed performances—one at 10:30 AM and another at 1:30 PM—due to overwhelming demand.

To kick things off, the Critter Keeper jokingly “charged admission” in the form of petting Mr. Beasley, his friendly bearded dragon. Some attendees eagerly accepted the challenge, others hesitated before bravely reaching out, and a few opted to skip the petting—something the Critter Keeper graciously allowed.

Throughout the show, guests met returning stars like Plasma the blood python and Misshell the turtle. Several lucky attendees even got to hold a tarantula! Each animal encounter was paired with fascinating facts, from how they protect themselves to how we can help protect their habitats.

In keeping with this year’s Summer Reading Program theme—“All About Colors”—the Critter Keeper introduced a brilliantly colored red-eyed tree frog. With shades of red, blue, green, orange, brown, and more, this vibrant amphibian perfectly captured the spirit of the theme and delighted everyone in attendance.

But the highlight of the show was still to come. For the grand finale, the Critter Keeper invited a few brave volunteers—and some nervous-looking adults—to help him handle his star attraction: Julius Squeezer, a massive 50-pound albino boa constrictor. Recently fed and full of energy, Julius required the strength of several kids to hold him up for an epic group photo.

The library was thrilled to host the Critter Keeper once again, and with about 250 people attending, it’s safe to say the event was a huge success. His show continues to be a favorite in our community and a memorable highlight of our summer programming.

The Calhoun County Library’s Summer Reading Program is completely free and open to all, made possible through a Library Services and Technology Act grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services, administered by the South Carolina State Library.

A big thank you to everyone who attended and volunteered—you helped make this summer one to remember!

Former teacher, Kathy Link, has been captured by a python at the Calhoun County Library. Beware!

Special Calhoun County Library Dedication

            The Calhoun County Library has a lot of great things happening and we’re making changes to better serve our community! One change we recently made was to honor a long-term board member with a special dedication.

 In honor of one of our long-standing library board members, we have dedicated one room to her and have placed her portrait in the room along with a placard designating the room name. We’re delighted to announce that the conference room to the right of the front circulation desk is now named the Ann Kissam Thornton Board Room in honor of Mrs. Ann Thornton of St. Matthews, one of our most loyal board members. Mrs. Thornton has served on the Calhoun County Board of Trustees since 1979 and is just as excited about the library’s impact on people’s lives now as she was back then. She is actively involved in library programs, and she volunteers for numerous children’s programs and events. You will probably see her at the Boo Bash in October and at Cookies with Santa in December. Mrs. Thornton is an avid reader herself and can frequently be seen at the library checking out her favorite books. We are pleased to welcome the Ann Kissam Thornton Board Room, available to the public upon request.

Mrs. Ann Thornton has been a member of the Calhoun County Library Board of Trustees since April 27, 1979. We were able to congratulate Ms. Thornton and have her join us for a quick little interview.

 

Question: What led you to decide to be a committed member of the Calhoun County Board of Trustees?

Answer: I had three young children and I always enjoyed reading to them. Reading is just important as a whole and so is love for libraries, which I had and passed down to my children. Although libraries are more than just reading, we initially did not have lots of programs here in Calhoun County. I wanted to get more people involved in reading.

 

Question: What has contributed to your longevity on the Library Board?

Answer: I came to love the library more throughout the years. I loved how the library was growing and the direction it was going in. I also loved the other board members who shared the same desire to create the best library possible.

 

Question: What are some of the best changes you have seen take place at the library while serving on the Calhoun County Library Board?

Answer: One of the best changes is that we have witnessed people realizing that there is more to a library than just books. From when I joined, we have moved buildings, added more activities and programs, and created bigger opportunities for everyone. For example, there is a sense of camaraderie amongst the parents and guardians who bring their little ones to the Mother Goose on the Loose program.

 

Question: How has serving on the Board impacted your life?

Answer: This is a deep and loaded question. The answer has to be that it gave me purpose and belonging. That does not mean that it was easy though. I was raising three children and working full time while being on the Board. I am a big believer that if many do a little, a lot gets accomplished.

 

We would like to thank Ms. Ann Thornton for her many years of devotion and commitment to the Calhoun County Library by serving on the Calhoun County Library Board of Trustees. So, come by and see the Ann Kissam Thornton Board Room!

Summer Reading Magician and Illusionist

            The Calhoun County Library welcomed a fantastic magician and illusionist for the Summer Reading Program last week, and we had a packed house!

            Tim Sonefelt came to the library on Thursday, July 10, 2025, at 10:30 AM to perform for everyone. This performance involved a lot of tricks and misdirection that had our audience in awe. Some of these magic deceptions involved erasing the colors in a coloring book in front of their eyes (without moving this book too much) and then, with the quick wave of his hand, it was perfectly colored again. This had the crowd screaming like crazy! Other illusions included finding the hidden Skittles inside magical colored boxes and a visit from Larry the Duck!

            A lesson that Tim taught everyone was that color and art come in multiple forms. Instead of just thinking about painting or drawing, art can be cooking, baking, making music, designing structures through architecture, designing fashion, writing, and others. Art comes in multiple forms, and Tim included this in his performance perfectly.

            The Summer Reading Program is completely free to attend and enjoy. We would like to thank everyone who came and volunteered. This project is made possible by a Library Services and Technology Act grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services administered by the South Carolina State Library.

A Colorful Week of Science Camp

            The Calhoun County Library held a very colorful STEM Science Camp the last week in June with a wonderful retired chemist.

            All About Colors was the topic of the STEM Science Camp this year. It took place from Monday, June 23, 2025, through Friday, June 27, 2025. Each class was from 11:45 AM - 1 PM. Our teacher was the wonderful Dr. Lesa Rice-Jackson, who led us through a five-day week full of experiments and thrills.

            On day one, we made color wheels and learned about everything from primary colors, hues, how to make the secondary colors, and the foundation of colors. This gave our scientists a baseline of information to build on for the rest of the week.

            On day two, we learned about color solutions by mixing water, dyes, chemicals like hydrochloric acid, and in-house foods like purple cabbage and vinegar together. This gave our scientists a physical illusion of how colors work and change depending on what comes in contact with them.

            On day three, we did a scavenger hunt around the library to search for the primary and secondary colors. This gave our scientists a chance to find these colors in the wild and explore how books are colorful in many ways.

            On day four, we made a wearable, a tie dye visor hat, using household items. With colored Kool-aid and some water, we used paint brushes to draw on base colors and then designs on their hats. After they were finished, they had a choice whether or not to spray their wearable with rubbing alcohol, which dilutes the colors and spreads them out. This allowed our scientists to express their personalities in a colorful, wearable form.

            On day five, we had our color-bration to celebrate all of our scientists who completed this week-long STEM Science Camp with us. We even had to highlight some of the best notebooks, most improved, best wearable, and other awards just because these scientists put their best work forward, especially during summer when they aren’t even in school.

            We are very pleased with the turnout of the 2025 STEM Science Camp. It was a blast! We would like to extend our greatest thanks to Dr. Lesa Rice-Jackson for putting on a wonderful and well-thought-through STEM Science Camp full of colors to fit right into our Summer Reading Program theme: Color Our World. We would also like to thank the Orangeburg Chick-fil-a for donating a special prize to each of our STEM Science Camp scientists for their hard work. Of course, the Calhoun County Library would not be able to put on programs like these without the support of our volunteers so we would like to thank them for always being there to lend us a helping hand.

A Fabulous Porkchop Productions Play

            The Calhoun County Library had a special Summer Reading Program last week and we partnered with the Calhoun County Museum.

            On Thursday, July 26, 2025, at 10:30 AM, Porkchop Productions performed for the Summer Reading Program at the Calhoun County Museum. They performed a funny, inspirational version of “The Tortoise and the Hare.” The play was a fable, which is a short story that usually involves animals and teaches a lesson, about a hare (a rabbit) that was competitive and cocky. The animals in the barn did not want to play with the hare because of that. During the play, the hare played with a few different animals and never changed its ways: always winning and then rubbing it in and bragging.

            Eventually, the tortoise challenged the hare to a race. The hare, of course, laughed but eventually agreed. The race was off and the hare was so much faster than the slow tortoise that he decided to take a nap. Due to not having an alarm or someone to wake him up, the hare slept longer than he intended and almost missed the slow tortoise crossing the finish line before him. This taught the hare that you can’t expect everything to go your way and win all the time, but you have to be happy for others when they win and you can’t be a sore loser.

            Over 150 people went to the Calhoun County Museum to watch the Calhoun County Library’s Summer Reading Program with Porkchop Productions. This was a fantastic turnout and we love that everyone was able to enjoy this fantastic performance!

            This project is made possible by a Library Services and Technology Act grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services administered by the South Carolina State Library.

            Also, remember, slow and steady wins the race.

Dancing Marionette Puppets for Summer Reading Program

            The Calhoun County Library had a visit from the Columbia Marionette Theatre for the Summer Reading Program the second week of June.

            The Columbia Marionette Theatre visited a group of over 120 people on Thursday, June 12, 2025, at 10:30 AM for our Summer Reading Program. If you don’t know what a marionette puppet is, it is a puppet that works using strings attached to numerous parts of them, like the hands and feet. We loved watching them perform with their beautiful puppets for a wonderful rendition of The Colorful World of Anansi the Spider. They had so many puppets that followed Anansi through its journey trying to get stories for the land. We don’t want to ruin the ending of the story for the Columbia Marionette Theatre, but we will give you a hint that you may be able to find books about Anansi at the library.

            The Summer Reading Program is completely free to attend and enjoy. We would like to thank everyone who came and volunteered. This project is made possible by a Library Services and Technology Act grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services administered by the South Carolina State Library.

It’s time for STEM Science Camp at the Library!

            The Calhoun County Library is getting ready for their annual STEM Science Camp with Dr. Lesa Rice-Jackson next week. Call the library to register for this free camp today!

Science Camp takes place every day,  Monday, June 23, 2025 through Friday, June 27, 2025. This program will be from 11:45 AM - 1 PM. This way, your child will not miss the Summer Reading Program at the Calhoun County Museum for Porkchop Productions from 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM and will not miss the beginning of the STEM Science Camp day. The theme this year is All About Colors which means kids will be making color wheels, tie dye hats, color solutions, and more! So, you do not want your kids or grandkids to miss this week of educational FUN!

You must register your child, who must be between ages 8 - 14, to attend this event due to limited space. To register, please visit the library or call us at 803-874-3389. We look forward to a great STEM Science Camp with a full class.

Successful Color Run and Summer Reading Program Registration

            The Calhoun County Library held their Summer Reading Program Kickoff last week with a Color Run at the Calhoun County Sports Complex.

            On Thursday, June 5, 2025, from 10:30 AM - 12:30 AM, we had around 225 children and adults of all ages run through clouds of color. This was a celebration to begin our Summer Reading Program. This year’s theme is Color Our World since books hold so many possibilities and color our world in so many ways. Our Color Run was held at the new Calhoun County Sports Complex where we set up a track with a bright colored obstacle course including a balance beam, stepping stones, a ball bounce, and so much more. Between these obstacles, we had stations full of blue, yellow, green, and pink powder that were safely thrown to turn white T-shirts into multi-colored ones. The library provided white shirts and colorful sunglasses while supplies lasted to make sure everyone had a great time! We also kept everyone cool with the Calhoun County Fire Department spraying their firehose and Randolph’s Italian Ice providing delicious treats.

            Registration for the Summer Reading Program is now open as well. If you have not registered yourself or your child, now is the best time to do so. It’s not too late!

            You can register several ways:

                1. Go straight to the website at https://calhouncountylibrary.beanstack.com/reader365.

                2. Come into the library and look for a QR code at the circulation desk or the children’s area desk. Scan and register!

                3. Come into the library and ask a staff member to help you register!

                4. Save the QR code that is posted on our Facebook and Instagram and scan it in your photos on your phone!

            Once you are registered, start reading and log your minutes. For every 30 minutes logged, you can come into the library and receive a prize. For every 30 minutes you log, your name goes into a drawing for our grand prize. We are even getting new prizes this year, so you’ll have to wait and see what they are! The more you read, the better your chances are of winning!

            Remember, there are multiple age categories for Summer Reading because we want everyone to be included. We have Early Literacy (ages 0 - 6), Children’s (Ages 7 - 12), Teens (ages 13 - 17), and Adults (ages 18 - 109). Register for the category that best fits your needs and participate to your hearts content!

            This Color Run was completely free to attend and enjoy. We would like to thank everyone who came and volunteered, and a special thank you goes out to the Calhoun County Fire Department for their time and participation. This project is made possible by a Library Services and Technology Act grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services administered by the South Carolina State Library.

2025 Summer Reading Program Schedule

            The Calhoun County Library has a very busy schedule coming up for the Summer Reading Program so everyone mark your calendars!

Check it out below:

June 5, 2025 - Kickoff: Color Run from 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM (at the Calhoun County Sports Complex)

June 12, 2025 - Columbia Marionette Theatre at 10:30 AM

June 19, 2025 - Closed for Juneteenth

June 26, 2025 - Porkchop Production at 10:30 AM (at the Calhoun County Museum)

July 3, 2025 - No Program

July 10, 2025 - Tim Sonefelt at 10:30 AM

July 17, 2025 - Critter Keeper at 10:30 AM and 1:30 PM

July 24, 2025 - Paint Party at 10:30 AM

July 31, 2025 - Finale at 10:30 AM

Be sure to attend these events and have some fun with us! All of these programs are free to attend and it is free to participate in our Summer Reading Program. Sign up at calhouncountylibrary.beanstack.org to log your minutes and win prizes.

Let’s have a great summer together during the Color Our World Summer Reading Program!