Library and Every Child Reads, organizations to be proud of

     As a member of the Monticello Library Board of Trustees and Jones County Every Child Reads (Grade Level Reading), there are two exciting events I am quite proud to promote.

     Inside this week’s paper there are two features about the 15^th anniversary of the Monticello Renaissance Center and Ross & Elizabeth Baty Public Library, as well as the grand opening of the story walk at Central Park.

     I’ve lived in this great community since 2009 and have seen so many great projects take shape, too many to list without leaving one out.

     I was serving on the library board in 2016 when they celebrated their 10^th anniversary inside the new building. It’s crazy to think of all the changes that have taken place over the last five years from staff to programs, services, technology, outreach and so much more. Not to mention… new furniture! I might be biased, but I do enjoy the new computer bar inside the library that looks out over First Street. Some use it for their laptops; it’s my favorite reading spot!

     Despite all of the expanded services the Monticello library now offers, checking out a good book still remains at the top of my list!

     On June 10, the library will celebrate its 15^th anniversary, and you are all welcome to stop by and celebrate with us! This truly is a community library we should all be proud of.

     Every Child Reads/Grade Level Reading might be new to some, but it’s an organization that has been around for a couple of years. Thanks to COVID, so many of our programs and events had to be put on hold last year. However, that did not stop us from working with Jones County Conservation and Jones County Extension to create a story walk at Central Park.

     A ribbon-cutting for the story walk and family fun day at the park will be held on June 5, and again, all are welcome to attend.

     Throughout the year, Conservation will change the story walk book so families have an opportunity to walk the trail while reading a great children’s book and have fun taking part in the prompts.

     This project truly has been a collaborative effort from so many people, organizations, and entities providing funding for the story walk.

     We are lucky to have a Conservation Department that takes pride in the work they do and wants what’s best for the people of Jones County.

     Every Child Reads focuses on making sure children are prepared to succeed in school and life. Outdoor opportunities like Central Park and reading are two big factors, not to mention family time spent together.

     While it’s been hard for Every Child Reads to physically show the fruits of our labor during 2020 and into 2021, the story walk at Central Park is a prime example of putting in the effort, creating sustaining relationships and partnerships, and giving the community something to be proud of.