Libraries open for exploration

All six branches of the Butte County Library open and back in full swing with programs and services beyond checking out books.

“The library has been here all along, we’re back to where we were before the COVID shutdown and we’re anxious to see our old friends and meet new people,” said Cynthia Pustejovsky, branch manager for Oroville, Gridley and Biggs.

While every branch is now open for in-person book check-out, curbside book check-out also remains available.

“We invite people to come in, explore and get cool this summer. We offer so much more than good new books and DVDs. We have a lot of great programs and resources available including a lot of e-resources, free internet access, audio book, e-books, training resources and access to newspapers from all over the country,” said Pustejovsky.

All six branches of the library are hosting a summer on-line and in-person reading program through the end of July. This program is for all ages and includes activities as well as prizes for reading books. To learn more and to register visit https://buttecounty.beanstack.org/ reader365

The Reconnect, Engage, Adults Creating Hope program is also available at each branch. The REACH program provides assistance with finding a job, training for a new career, gaining new skills or assistance with starting your own business or expanding your small business. Assistance available through this program includes: resume building, job application assistance, mock interviews, one-on-one business counseling, classes, workshops and e-learning platforms. To learn more or to register visit http:// www.buttecounty.net/bclibrary/Library-Services/ Reach-Program.

Library card holders may also get free vehicle day-use entry to more than 200 participating state parks. To learn more and request a pass visit www. buttecounty.net/bclibrary/ parkpass

The Oroville branch is offering Lunch At The Library for youth 18 and younger from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Tuesday through Friday through Aug. 15. This program is free and no reservations are needed.

Some special upcoming programs include “Bats visit the Library” on July 21 at 11 a.m. at the Gridley branch and 1:30 p.m. at the Oroville branch. Special handlers will be at the library with live bats, certified non-releasable by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.

“The program will be about how bats benefit nature and to demystify them as well as dispel misconceptions about them,” said Pustejovsky.

The Gridley branch is hosting a “Cake and Color” summer party for adults on July 28 and the Paradise branch is offering a “Storywalk” for kids at Terry Ashe Park on July 30.

Regular programs have also returned to the library. These include kids clubs, story times for various ages, craft activities, movies and Lego Saturdays.

For teens the Chico branch offers “Teen Fandom Live” for youth 13 and older. This program offers fun and games on Instagram and at the library. In Oroville “Exploring! — Maker Space Time” is open to kids 11 and older. This program offers games and activities to “inspire creativity and develop new skills,” said Pustejovsky.

The library offers a variety of adult programs too including book clubs, craft clubs and technology assistance for beginners.

Not all children, teen and adult programs are available at all branches so Pustejovsky suggest checking on-line at http://www. buttecounty.net/BCLIBRARY to see what the individual branches are offering.

All six branches of the library are hosting a summer on-line and in-person reading program through the end of July. This program is for all ages and includes activities as well as prizes for reading books.