Literary Elements: Summer Reading for Adults

There's still plenty of time to sign up for our summer reading program for adults. Don't let kids have all the fun! Come into the library to register and get your Summer Reading Log, or register online. Our summer theme is Literary Elements. You'll use our version of a Periodic Table of Elements to read, explore, and participate your way through our books, services, and programs. Complete at least three activities each week to qualify for a grand prize drawing slip. Grand prizes this summer include a star registered in your name with the International Star Registry, a Magellan eXplorist GPS unit, and a Nook HD tablet. We'll draw for winners at our Celebrate Summer Literary Elements party on August 1 (age 21+) - join us there for wine, beer and other beverages, live music by Bill Wenstrom, light appetizers, and door prizes! Register early to assure your spot.

Marion RePurpose Club to Meet Monthly

Program: FLY to RePurpose!

Date: Monday, July 28

Time: 6:00-8:00

Our brand new Marion RePurpose Club was so successful in June that we get to do it every month! In July, we'll be making dragonfly yard, garden, or wall ornaments from spindles, fan blades, and other items.
This super fun evening is offered by Habitat for Humanity's ReStore staff. Yvette and Deb bring their fun and creativity to the Marion Library; they have all the stuff you need to repurpose leftovers, bits, and pieces into cool and unique things that you can really use.

Because of our space constraints, and to help Deb and Yvette know how many supplies to bring, registration is required. There is a small materials fee ($5/adult, $3/under 16) which may be paid at the program. Children 11 and younger MUST be accompanied by an adult. We'll be painting, so be sure to wear appropriate clothing! And, if you can bring your own flat head and phillips screwdrivers, that'll be a big help.

Registration Requested for Out Loud! Author Programs

Program: Out Loud! The Metro Library Network Author Series

Dates: July 11, July 18

Time: 7:00 p.m.

Out Loud! The Metro Library Network Author Series is thrilled to present some of the nations' most renowned authors this summer. Two programs remain in our 2014 line-up.

The collaborative program of the Cedar Rapids, Hiawatha, and Marion Public Libraries will present Wally Lamb (July 11) and Elizabeth Berg (July 18) in free events at the Hotel at Kirkwood Center; both programs begin at 7 p.m. While no tickets are required, series organizers are requesting preregistration to gauge venue size. To register, visit http://bit.ly/OutLoud and navigate to the event dates. Alternately, patrons may contact any of the Metro Libraries or send an email to events@crlibrary.org.

Both Out Loud! authors will take questions from the audience and sign books following their presentations. More information about the Out Loud! Author Series is available at www.metrolibrarynetwork.org/outloud. Out Loud! The Metro Library Network Author Series is supported by the Giacoletto Foundation with media support from The Gazette and event book sales provided by Barnes & Noble Booksellers.

Fascinated by the Weather?

Program: KCRG Adult Weather Academy

Date: Tuesday, July 15

Time: 7:00-8:00

KCRG's Weather Academy isn't just for kids! Go behind the scenes to see how our weather works, how forecasts are made, and how to prepare for severe weather. We'll also have time for questions and conversation. Justin Gehrts, Meteorologist with KCRG, will present this program. Get credit on your summer reading log for attending this program! No registration required.

Disappearing Monarchs

Program: Where are the Monarch Butterflies?

Date: Wednesday, July 16

Time: 6:30-7:30

Monarch populations have been declining for the past 10 years and people are taking notice! What are the issues? Learn how you can be part of the solution to this problem. Tips on how to create a monarch caterpillar and butterfly haven in your yard, how to raise monarch caterpillars, become a citizen scientist, and participate in Monarch Watch, an international study on monarch migration. This program is presented by Jan Aiels, Education Facilitator from Indian Creek Nature Center, and is free and open to everyone. Get credit on your summer reading log for attending this program! No registration required.

Check out eBooks or Audio Books for your Reader Device from the Library

Need help downloading library books to your eReader? Come in for free help; bring your eReader device (and cords) and your questions - we'll do our best to get you up and reading! Throughout the summer (June-August), we'll have a staff person available on Tuesday evenings to help you with our downloadable books. No appointment necessary; come anytime between 6:00 and 9:00 p.m.

Summer Sky Fun!

Program: Astronomy as a Hobby: What's Up There to See?

Date: Tuesday, July 22

Time: 7:00-8:00

Did you know there is a local astronomy group? This evening, Cedar Amateur Astronomers' Observatory Committee members John Leeson, Greg Frohner, Vern Jackson, and Forrest Tomes share their interest and expertise with us in this unique program on "Astronomy as a Hobby: What's Up There to See?"

Learn about the variety of ways to be involved and learn, including observing, photography, history, Internet as a resource, outreach, and more. Our astronomy team plans to share details about some of the objects you'll see in the sky, such as planetary nebula. They'll provide a handout with additional resources including useful web sites, reading recommendations for children, how to find the local astronomical observatory, and more about the Cedar Amateur Astronomers. Get credit on your summer reading log for attending this program! No registration required.

Confused About Medicare?

Program: Medicare Monday -

Basics of Medicare

Date: Monday, July 28

Time: 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Confused by Medicare? Join us for Medicare Mondays! Retirement Insurance Specialist (RIS) representative Jill deLaubenfels presents an educational program on Medicare Parts A, B, C, D and supplements, and describes how the health care landscape is changing. There is no obligation for attending, and light refreshments will be served. RIS is not affiliated with Medicare or with any government program.

Take Best Advantage of Benefits

Program: Shifting Gears: Preparing for Retirement

Date: Tuesday, July 1

Time: 6:30-7:30

Finance professionals from Principal Financial present this workshop on transitioning to retirement. You'll learn more about hazards you may face, Social Security, and turning savings into income in retirement. There's no charge and no obligation.

Party Down at the Library!

Program: Celebrate Summer Literary Elements Party

Date: Friday, August 1

Time: 6:00-8:00

Join us at the library for an after-hours Literary Elements party! This is for adults (age 21+) only. We'll enjoy a pleasant social evening with friends, light appetizers, wine, beer and other beverages, door prizes, and live music provided by Bill Wenstrom. If you participated in our summer reading program, come to the party for the Grand Prize drawings. You must be pre-registered to attend.

Library Summer Hours

Friday, July 4 - CLOSED

Monday-Wednesday 9:30 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Thursday 9:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Friday-Saturday 9:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Sunday CLOSED