Downey library marking national library week

DOWNEY – The Downey City Library is planning several events next week as it celebrates National Library Week from April 7-12. Author Jill Stowell will discuss her book, “At Wit’s End: a Parent’s Guide to Ending the Struggle, Tears and Turmoil of Learning Disabilities,” Monday at 6:30 p.m.

Mayor Fernando Vasquez will read at the library’s Preschool Story Time on Tuesday starting at 10:30 a.m. Vasquez will read some of his favorite stories to children ages 3-5. Children will also enjoy a snack and make a handprint lily as a thank you gift.

“Celebrating National Library Week provides a great opportunity for us to showcase all of the wonderful things our City Library has to offer,” the mayor said. “I encourage our residents to stop by our library and take part in the activities that are planned.”

On Thursday from 6:30-7:15 p.m., Duffy Hudson will delight children and their families with Dr. Seuss stories. Duffy is a Broadway and film actor who specializes in creating unique and lively shows. Children can even meet the Cat in the Hat and have their photo taken.

The library will host two events on Saturday, April 12. For adults, the library is hosting a bus to the L.A. Times Festival of Books at USC. The bus will leave the library’s parking lot at 8 a.m. and return at 5 p.m. Cost is $5; residents can register and pay at the Friends of the Downey City Library’s gift shop during normal library hours.

For children, the library will have a Read-A-Thon from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The library is celebrating DEAR (Drop Everything and Read) Day in honor of Beverly Cleary, author of the “Ramona” series and numerous award-winning books. A host of volunteers will be reading favorite children’s books. There will be balloons, crafts and giveaways.

The free event promotes a love of reading and libraries in children of all ages. Everyone is welcome to attend and participate.

Also, the library’s Book Lovers Club is meeting Thursday from 12-1 p.m. for a lively discussion on “The Twelve Tribes of Hattie” by Ayana Mathis. All are welcome to participate or simply listen in.

For more information on upcoming activities, call the library at (562) 904-7360 and select opion 3 for the Adult Information Desk or option 4 for the Children’s Desk.

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Published: April 3, 2014 - Volume 12 - Issue 51