The doors are open and local residents can still utilize a number of services at the Escalon library, but programs right now remain mostly virtual. An open air outdoor activity, however, is scheduled for Thursday, Feb. 10 for local youngsters to do some Valentine’s Day crafts.
On that day, anytime between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m., kids can stop by the library on Second Street to decorate a sugar cookie and make a Valentine’s Day card. The event will last until supplies run out, so library officials said it’s best to get there early.
The library will be closed on both Monday, Feb. 14 for Lincoln’s birthday observance and Monday, Feb. 21 for Washington’s birthday observance. Regular hours at the branch, 1540 Second St., Escalon, are Mondays and Wednesdays from 1 pm. to 6 p.m.; Tuesdays 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.; Thursdays 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Fridays 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Services including checking out of materials, access to the Friends of the Escalon Library book sale, use of computers and more are available inside the branch. There is also a ‘community puzzle’ set up inside for anyone to spend a few moments with, helping to fit some pieces in to place.
Online, residents can take advantage of multiple programs and services from new online craft instruction to access to tutors and more. Also, the library does have some laptops and hot spots available to loan out; a library card is required and a sign out agreement is also necessary.
Specific programs are noted on the countywide library website, www.ssjcpl.org
Escalon is a branch of the Stockton-San Joaquin County Public Library System. There are eight branches in the City of Stockton, including the main Cesar Chavez Central Library on North El Dorado Street, while county branches include Escalon, Lathrop, Linden, Manteca, Mountain House, Ripon, Thornton, Tracy and a Mobile Library.
A new program is a ‘virtual volunteering’ opportunity for teens, ages 13 to 18, across the county. Called the “Read It and Review” volunteering opportunity, teens read a book or listen to an audiobook in the library’s collection that they have never borrowed before and then write a personal review, between 150 and 250 words, that is suitable for publication.
Students can earn volunteer hours, one hour per review, with a maximum of 15 hours per school year, for completing the reviews. There are specific guidelines, and the program also offers students the chance to improve their writing skills and add the item to their résumé.
More information about that opportunity is available online at www.ssjcpl.org/involved/volunteer.html
Also, as a reminder, the Friends of the Escalon Library is always looking for new members; cost is $10 per individual, $25 per family or $30 per business and cash, checks, credit or debit are accepted at the library. Checks can also be mailed to FOTEL, 1540 Second St., Escalon, CA 95320.
The Friends helps put on both the summer and winter reading programs including prizes, special events and parties; hosts monthly crafts, the Science Saturdays, Teen DIY programs and more.
