I Got Killed? How?!

            Sharpen up your sleuth skills and get your investigating eyes ready because Calhoun County Library has revamped our murder mystery program. Introducing a new name, we are inviting anyone who wants to feel like a detective to attend “I Got Killed? How?!” every Tuesday from 5:30 - 7 PM.

            I Got Killed? How?! is replacing the Calhoun Private Investigators. This program is now bigger and better, and if you like digging deep, finding clues, using your critical thinking skills, and solving a murder mystery, then I Got Killed? How?! is for you! Examine evidence, question suspects, uncover details, and evaluate facts to figure out who did the killing. This program is intended for adults.

            If you want more information on this program, check out our video featuring some of your favorite people at the library at http://bit.ly/3RlTJ0L. Our promotional video gives a little insight into what this program is all about.

            Our first I Got Killed? How?! program will take place on Tuesday, February 7, 2023, from 5:30 PM - 7 PM. and every Tuesday following the debut. Come to the Calhoun County Library and help us solve all of these mysteries! We need you!

Improve Your Health with the Library

            At the Calhoun County Library, we offer a relaxing fitness class twice a week with an experienced instructor that you don’t want to miss.

            Strong & Limber is a class that can help work out all your creaks and kinks while also improving your balance and overall wellness. This program, Strong & Limber, taught by Summer Johnson, helps build strength, flexibility, and durability. As you awaken your muscles, you’re training them to assist you in reducing stress and pain. When people hear about Strong & Limber, they automatically think about physical movement. While movement is involved in this class, there is more to it than that. We do get physical, but there won’t be any handstands or cartwheels! This class focuses on meditation and breathing. To gain full control of yourself, you have to know your body and mind, and that is the goal for each Strong & Limber class here at the library.

            The calming environment of the class is enhanced by dim lighting with sunlight peeking through. Soft music plays as Summer provides guidance in stretching, touching toes, and building a strong core. The movements are slow and deliberate which results in a soothing atmosphere for self-care.

            Let's get flexible! Join us for gentle stretching on mats or in chairs twice a week. On Tuesdays, this class is 11 AM - 12 PM and Fridays from 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM. The cost is $2 a class or $14 for the month which gives you access to all Tuesday and Friday classes for that month. 

            If you are interested in connecting your soul and body, we would love for you to join Strong & Limber at the Calhoun County Library! While you are here, feel free to check out some books on stretching or whatever you are interested in. This is the perfect opportunity to continue your New Year’s resolutions and maintain your health in a fun way!

            This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Calhoun County Library.

Successful Computer Class

“Click and drag. Double click. Scroll. Tab. Copy and paste.” These are just a few of the phrases you’ll hear when you come to our Adult Computer Class. The Calhoun County Library offers a free adult computer class every week and the participants are successfully learning new technology skills.

“I’ve been working since I was about 16 so you acquire a lot of different experiences but I’ve found that you have to keep up with the technology, you have to keep up with the computer," said class participant Cleo Owens. She shared with us that she even ordered an Apple watch online completely by herself and is learning how to use it which is something she was never able to do before!

Class participant Mary Dixon said, “I was a bit overwhelmed. I actually came to the library because I was pulling my hair out. I said, I need a book on excel! I feel more confident in my job and I’m over 60 years old so technology goes so fast so it’s nice to feel confident and know someone’s there to support you.” She has learned how to use the computer to design posters and other graphics for work as well.

The Calhoun County Library has even gained some media attention around this class! WLTX News aired a short story and interview with some of the students that attend this adult computer class. To check it out, visit their website at WLTX News or head to our Facebook Page.

We would love to see you at our adult computer classes whether you need a refresher on using Excel, need help setting up an email account, or need help with a new device. Learn new computer skills or brush up on skills you already have. You can learn all things computer related! Join us every Wednesday from 3 PM - 5 PM for this completely free class. We would love to have you here!

Mother Goose on the Loose Interrupted

            Calhoun County went through a scary moment last week when a tornado warning alarm was sent out. At the Calhoun County Library, the Mother Goose on the Loose program was taking place. Mary Jo Springs, our Mother Goose, made sure to keep her children calm.

            On Wednesday, January 4, 2023, a tornado warning was sent to the members of Calhoun County. In the middle of this, the Calhoun County Library was having our weekly children’s program, Mother Goose on the Loose. The attending children, who do not understand what a weather alarm and flickering lights meant, were confused and scared. In the Family Room, where we sheltered, Mary Jo took it upon herself to calm these children down. She did this by continuing what she does during Mother Goose on the Loose: playing the ukulele, singing, dancing, and reading.

            Thank you Mary Jo Springs for staying, being quick on your feet, and making sure that everyone was safe and entertained.

            Parents, bring your littles to the Calhoun County Library every Wednesday from 10:30 AM – 11 AM to join our free Mother Goose on the Loose program led by Mary Jo. Your child is sure to have a blast!

First Completion of 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten

            1,000 Books may seem like a lot, but our little readers have taken on the challenge! At the Calhoun County Library, our youngest readers may participate in 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten, which is an incentive to start reading at a young age to prepare children and give them a head start for kindergarten.

            Last week, on Wednesday, December 28, 2022, we had our very first child complete the program! Aria Coble finished reading  1,000 books within a year of starting her journey. The staff here at the Calhoun County Library is very proud of Aria, and we commend her dedication and adventurous spirit. Congratulations, Aria!

            Parents - by reading 1,000 books with your children before they begin kindergarten, you are letting them know that reading is an important life skill that will hopefully become a habit. You can sing, dance, play, and recite together to show that reading is fun!

            Parents, it is not too late to sign up for your child to participate in this program. To participate, you can sign up on calhouncountylibrary.com/reader365 or come into the library to fill out a simple form.

            1,000 books may seem like a lot, but don’t get intimidated. If you read only one book a day, that means that your child will have reached the goal in under three years! That doesn’t mean you have to read 1,000 different books either; every book counts. You and your child can read the same book over and over and it still counts each time!

            For every 100 books your child reads, Calhoun County Library invites you to bring your child in for a new log sheet and a reading celebration. This includes having their photo taken so they can be placed on our Wall of Fame in the children’s section of the library. We want to celebrate our little readers for every goal they reach.

            You don’t have to stop at 1,000 books! There is a lot more learning ahead!

            This awesome literacy program is offered in partnership with our local schools and funded through grants from the Institute of Museum and Library Services and the American Rescue Plan Act.⁠

Donation Policy for the Friends

            The Friends of the Calhoun County Library (FOCCL) is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that sponsors and supports library book clubs, fundraisers, teen internship opportunities, and library advocacy efforts.

            Every Tuesday afternoon between 2 PM and 5 PM, the Friends of the Calhoun County Library opens their special sales room which  can be accessed from inside or outside of the library. You can browse through the room and pick up whatever your heart desires: hardback books, paperback books, DVDs, audiobooks, puzzles, and some other surprises. Best of all, it won’t break the bank.

Hardback books $2 (3 for $5)

Paperback books $1 (7 for $5)

AudioVisual Materials $2 (3 for $5) *BluRay $4 (3 for $10)

Board Books for Babies $ .50 (5 for $2)

Jigsaw Puzzles $5

            With a major overhaul and reorganization over the last year, there are many new titles and categories to explore. There is also an extensive selection of Christian fiction, children’s books, biographies, historical non-fiction, and even fun, gently-used jigsaw puzzles. Check out the book display in the window to see what’s new. 

            During the library’s regular business hours, there is always a little cart by the circulation desk that has books for purchase. These purchases also benefit the FOCCL. So, whenever you come in, check out the cart to see if anything sparks your fancy. You might see something you must have for your own collection!

            If you would like to donate your books and movies to help out the Friends of the Calhoun County Library and the Calhoun County Library, please read the following policy:

The Friends of the Calhoun County Library accepts donations of reading and audio/visual materials in good condition. Good condition items are new/gently used and free of mold, mildew, stains, strong odors, and missing/torn pages.

We are unable to accept reference materials (encyclopedias, dictionaries, textbooks, etc.), older nonfiction materials (more than 5 years), computer/technology/medical manuals, Reader’s Digest Condensed Books or Illustrated Classics, periodicals/magazines of any type, and obsolete media formats (VHS, cassette, etc).

            For information on becoming a Friend or finding out when the best time to donate is, call the Library at (803) 874-3389. Don’t forget to come check out the sale next Tuesday; you never know what you might come across at the Friends of the Calhoun County Library Book Sale!

Santa at the Library

            Patrons of the Calhoun County Library came together to snack on some hot chocolate and cookies with Santa on Tuesday, December 13, 2022, from 5 PM - 7 PM.

            Over 300 people visited the library to celebrate Christmas which is quickly approaching. There were crafts for the children to create angel doilies, cinnamon stick Christmas trees, and other holiday-themed fun. After making crafts, guests enjoyed hot chocolate and cookies while listening to Christmas books being read aloud. We even spotted the Grinch lurking around and posing for pictures with patrons!

            Of course, the big highlight of the night was Santa Claus. Many children asked where his reindeer were. Sadly, the library does not have a big enough parking space so Santa had to park his sleigh by the Convalescent Center and get a ride to the library! Santa found his way to the library and made his way through our doors with jingling bells and a hearty Ho, Ho, Ho! He sat in his big chair in his red suit and listened to what every boy and girl wanted for Christmas as they sat on his lap. After their visit with Santa, each child received a special candy cane from the North Pole!

            This event was the perfect way to get in the holiday spirit and we are happy to announce that it was a huge success this year!

            If you came to the event and took a picture with Santa, feel free to tag us on social media. Our tag on both Instagram and Facebook is: @calhouncountylibrarysc

20 things You Need to Know Before Leaving High School at the Calhoun County Library

Part Three: Cooking

            We were cooking up some fun at the Calhoun County Library last week! Local teens of Calhoun County gathered at the library to learn more life skills that they should know before leaving high school. Our focus was on cooking.

            On Tuesday, December 6, 2022, teenagers learned the difference between tablespoons and teaspoons, the purpose of using oil or butter when cooking on a skillet or griddle, the proper way to use a spatula, how to blend flavors, and what the buttons on a microwave mean. They also took a kitchen utensil quiz and were introduced to items like a colander, a grater, and a garlic press.

            Our teens even got hands-on experience! We brought in a griddle and a microwave to get our teens cooking. After getting instructions along with a recipe, these teenagers made themselves a full meal! They made pico de gallo from scratch including seasoning to taste with cumin, chili pepper, garlic powder, cilantro, and lime juice. Then they moved on to the griddle for grilled quesadillas prefaced by learning how to coat the surface with either cooking spray or cooking oil. They waited patiently until their tortillas were golden brown and the cheese inside was ooey-gooey and then enjoyed a delicious quesadilla with homemade pico de gallo. To finish off their culinary skills, they made microwave S’mores that were just right. Ten seconds in the microwave is all it takes!  Our meal consisted of easy recipes that teens can make with a few ingredients and a little bit of time.

            Our teens were so proud of themselves and didn’t realize what they could actually cook. After last week’s Teen Night, they know they can survive if they ever have to! It was a lot of fun and delicious too!

            With the holidays so close, our teens have decided to skip meeting again in December. The next Teen Night will be on Tuesday, January 3, 2023, at 5 PM. Any teenagers between the ages of 12 and 17 are welcome to join us and have fun!

Library Card Design Contest

            Have an artist in your family or maybe just a doodler? The Calhoun County Library is hosting a design contest for the new library cards that will be making their way into the library shortly.

            We’re introducing two new library cards at the Calhoun County Library: Early Leaning and Juvenile library cards. Help us choose the artwork to be featured on these cards by participating in our design contest. 

            This contest is for students ages 5 - 16 who reside in Calhoun County. This is open for all schools in the county including homeschooled children. Three designs will be chosen for the new cards. Winning artists will receive a $25 gift card and their art teacher will receive a gift card for future art supplies for the classroom. 

            To apply, pick up an application at the Calhoun County Library, get one from the art teacher at all Calhoun County schools, or visit our website (calhouncountylibrary.org). The application consists of two sheets: one is where the artist will place their creation and the second is an information sheet that needs to be filled out together as it gives us permission to use the winning design on our new cards. Designs may be submitted at the library or electronically at info@calhouncountylibrary.org.

            The due date for the application is next Friday, December 16, 2022, by 5 PM.

            If you want to see your design or your child’s design on our new library cards which will circulate throughout the county, pick up an application today!

Feeling Festive with Porkchop

            Porkchop Productions, a community favorite, visited the Calhoun County Library on Tuesday, November 29, 2022, at 5 PM to get everyone in the holiday spirit. We had a full house with 90 people who visited the library to watch Porkchop Productions perform their Christmas play Holly and the Christmas Kerfuffle.

            “With only a few days left before Christmas, toys are disappearing from the Toy Safe in Santa’s Workshop and Holly the Elf is determined to get to the bottom of the mystery! Holly will go to any length to catch the thief…from the outrageous to the hilarious… to make sure Christmas goes off without a hitch!”

            “This installment of our Holly the Elf series was filled with plenty of laughs, and taught important lessons in understanding, the gift of giving, and learning to put yourself in someone else's shoes.”

            The roomful of people were laughing and problem-solving with the actors who were trying to protect the toys from being stolen by a thief. We won’t give away the ending, but the life lessons of caring and believing in yourself were important for everyone to learn. Audience members learned to give back to others, be understanding, and remember that you do not know what someone else is going through. This play will be one Christmas memory people of all ages will savor for a long time.

            The Calhoun County Library’s next holiday program will be held on Tuesday, December 13, 2022, from 5 PM - 7 PM. Join us for Cookies with Santa! There will be hot chocolate, cookies, crafts, books, and, of course, Santa Claus! Sit on his lap, tell him what you want for Christmas, and take some holiday pictures before Santa has to return to the North Pole. We hope to see you for Cookies with Santa!

20 things You Need to Know Before Leaving High School at the Calhoun County Library

Part Two: Car Maintenance

            Need a spare tire put on your car? Call one of our teens from Teen Night at the library! Last Tuesday, Lee Hollingsworth of Hutto's Transmission came to speak at Calhoun County Library’s Teen Night about car care as part of the 20 Things You Need to Know Before Leaving High School series.

            On Tuesday, November 15, 2022, Lee Hollingsworth presented a hands-on approach to learning about how a car works and how to maintain it during Teen Night at the library. Hollingsworth taught the teens many important aspects about a car including:

1. Where the radiator is located and how to check the water in it (do not check it when the engine is hot).
2. Where the oil well is located and how to use the dipstick to check oil.
3. Where the washer fluid tank is located and what to put in it (do not use soap because it will leave a soap residue on the windshield).
4. Where the battery is located and how to use jumper cables to jumpstart a car.
5. Where the spare tire and jack are located in a car, truck, and Jeep.
6. How to use the jack and chock the wheels of the car.
7. How to check the air in a tire with a tire gauge.
8. How to put air in a tire.

            After instructing teens about each aspect, Hollingsworth put them to the test. The teens actually removed the lug nuts with a lug wrench and then took the tires off, rotated them and put them back on. After that, they checked the air pressure in the tires and put more air in the ones that were low. They engaged in other hands-on activities with the car as well and many said they learned a lot from this experience.

            We appreciate all of the teens that came with the mindset to learn important skills. The Calhoun County Library appreciates Lee Hollingsworth for teaching and for his time.

            Join us for Teen Night on the first and third Tuesdays of each month at 5 PM from October through May. This program is for teens ages 12 - 17. We may interject other programs throughout this school year, but we will focus on 20 Things You Need to Know Before Leaving High School periodically.

Holidays at the Library

            Calhoun County Library has two Christmas programs coming up within the next few weeks for the community to get into the holiday spirit.

            Porkchop Productions will be at the Calhoun County Library on Tuesday, November 29, 2022, at 5 PM. The fan favorite is coming to perform the Christmas play Holly and the Christmas Kerfuffle for us!

            “With only a few days left before Christmas, toys are disappearing from the Toy Safe in Santa’s Workshop and Holly the Elf is determined to get to the bottom of the mystery! Holly will go to any length to catch the thief…from the outrageous to the hilarious… to make sure Christmas goes off without a hitch!

This installment of our Holly the Elf series promises plenty of laughs, and teaches important lessons in understanding, the gift of giving, and learning to put yourself in someone else's shoes.”

            Our second holiday event, Cookies with Santa, will take place on Tuesday, December 13, 2022, from 5 PM - 7 PM. Santa Claus will be at the Calhoun County Library to take pictures and listen to what all the good little boys and girls would like from him this year. Along with the Santa Claus main attraction, there will also be crafts, hot chocolate, cookies, book readings to listen to, and a free book to read before Santa visits your house on Christmas Day!

            Come and get your Christmas spirit going while having fun with the Porkchop players and Santa Claus. These two events are sure to keep you laughing and having fun the entire time! It is also bound to get you in the holiday spirit. We'll see you there!

20 things You Need to Know Before Leaving High School at the Calhoun County Library

            Our Teen Nights have started back and we're launching a series of programs called 20 Things You Need to Know Before Leaving High School. This past Tuesday, November 1, we invited members of the Bee Creative group to collaborate with our teens and teach them a few life skills. We focused on laundry and clothing care.

            Tuesday, November 1, at 5 PM the teens started rolling in for Teen Night at the Calhoun County Library. We also had three ladies from the Bee Creative group at the library who arrived with needles, thread, an iron, and an ironing board. Linda Coleman, Linda Felkel, and Thelma Miles handed out squares of fabric, spools of thread, needles, and buttons. Teens learned the correct way to sew on a button and did a great job with it! After buttoning things up at the table, they moved to the ironing board where they learned about the settings on the iron and using steam. Each teen took a turn ironing a cotton shirt including sleeves, collars, and cuffs. 

            After sewing buttons and ironing shirts, the teens learned how to do laundry and how to read labels on clothing. We looked at all the dials on a washer and dryer and learned what they mean, and we discussed what terms like “dry clean only,” “hand wash only,” and “tumble dry low” mean on a clothing label.

            Hopefully, our teens left with a sense of accomplishment and felt like they could sew on a button, iron a shirt, and do their own laundry. We appreciate the help of our Bee Creative members and are thankful for their time.

            Join us for Teen Nights on the first and third Tuesdays of each month from October through May. This program is for teens ages 12 - 17. We may interject other programs throughout this school year, but we will focus on 20 Things You Need to Know Before Leaving High School.