South Portland Library’s Nature themed craft, a moose headband courtesy photo/Jessica Milton
SOUTH PORTLAND – South Portland Public Library is set to host a series of educational events centered around nature, catering to the interests of both children and adults. According a library news release, the events aim to provide a platform for the community to come together, learn, and have fun.
The library is hosting a Nature Story Time on Jan. 26 at 10:30 a.m. for ages 2-5 and at 3:30 p.m. for ages 5 and older. Two Nature Story Time events will focus on bunnies, with age-specific themes and activities.
“At this event, Ranger Sydney will be teaching us about the different species of rabbits, how they behave, what they eat, and how their ears work,” said Jessica Milton, head of Youth Services. “The two events differ by age group mainly with the length of the books read (shorter for the littles and longer for the older kids) and the difficulty level of the crafts and activities. Ranger Sydney is also generally able to present more in-depth facts to the older group whereas the younger kiddos are usually ready to move on to another activity a little quicker.”
Milton said the involvement of Park Ranger Sydney in the Nature Story Time events enhances the experience for children and adults alike. “Having her at the library gives kids, and adults, a chance to get to know her, learn from her, ask her questions, and find out exactly what it means to be a park ranger,” Milton said. “She’s also a great role model for how to respect and protect nature. And our regular Nature Story Time attendees get so excited when they see her out and about in the parks, there was even talk of a kiddo dressing up like Ranger Sydney for Halloween.”
Arts and crafts give children a chance to think and learn about the subject they’re exploring, said Milton. “For example, if a child is decorating a moose headband they will have an opportunity to think about the coloring, markings, and facial features of the animal,” Milton said. “Or if they’re doing an activity where they craft a pizza that they think a bear would eat, they’re thinking and learning about a bear’s diet.”
“Construct & Create” is an all-age event scheduled for Jan. 27 at 10:30 a.m. The event emphasizes STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) programming. Children can build with LEGO, Lincoln Logs, Brain Flakes, and more. “Construct & Create is so much fun,” said Milton. “I love to see their amazing creations, and it’s fun to watch the kids work together to build on each other’s designs. STEM programming is an important part of what we offer here at the library, and this event is great for engaging and strengthening those skills in attendees. It’s also a wonderful time for kids to get together to play with friends and maybe make some new ones.”
Also on Jan. 27, the library kicks off its annual Winter Reading Program. With the theme “Read the Slopes,” the program encourages reading throughout the winter months. The program is for all age groups. Participants can stop by either library location on or after the Jan. 27 to pick up a reading log filled with reading-related activities to complete by March 10.
Upon completion the log can be returned to the library and the participant will have their name entered into a drawing for a chance to win a Bull Moose gift card. Additionally, children completing the program can choose a small prize from the treasure chest. “The goal of the Winter Reading Program is to keep everyone reading throughout the winter and to give them something fun to do in the colder, darker months,” Milton said.
On Jan.31 at 3:30 p.m., the Nature Story Time at the South Portland Library Branch will focus on the world of foxes. “We’ll read a story or two, Ranger Sydney will teach us some fun fox facts, and we’ll do a few crafts, including decorating a fox mask,” Milton said. “These events are wonderful for teaching young library patrons about the natural world around them. Kids are naturally curious about the things they see outside, and we love being able to help them learn all about them.”
Milton said the library welcomes feedback and continually adapts its programs to suit the diverse needs and interests of the community. “Wonderful feedback on some of our most popular programs such as the Noon Year Party and the PJs & Pancakes Party has turned those events into yearly occurrences,” Milton said. “All of our library events are totally free and open to everyone, which gives our patrons a chance to learn about a variety of topics while making new friends and being together as a community.”
Upcoming events at South Portland Library include visits from South Portland Police Chief Daniel Ahern on Jan. 19 at 10:30 a.m., programs by the Osher Map Library on Feb. 17, and more nature-themed story times like one all about frogs on Feb. 23. In March Mr. Drew will visit the library to introduce some animal friends. And there is a planned visit from Edward Gleason of the Southworth Planetarium.
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