The Franklin branch of the Johnson County Public Library. The variety of programs and resources at the different JCPL branches make it an ideal place for grandparents to bring their grandchildren.
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I have always loved the library and used it as a resource throughout my life, especially when I homeschooled my children. Then, 2 1/2 years ago, I became a grandparent.
I knew I would take my grandkids to the library and read with them a lot. But from one grandparent to another, I am here to tell you that the Johnson County Public Library is so much more than just a library with books. It is an amazing resource.
Here are some ways you can use the library as a resource as a grandparent:
For the very young: Each branch has an updated play-and-learn area with all kinds of hands-on things for the children to do, from puzzles and dressing up to magnetic building blocks. They also have loads of creative role-playing items. These areas are a hub for creative learning.
For children of all ages: Programs like Storytime, Hop and Bop movement, Cooking, Arts & Craft, Preschool Edible Science, and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Math) programs from preschool through teen, to name just a few.
For school-age and teen grandchildren: Jewelry-making programs, crochet programs, sewing programs, gaming programs, role-playing games, STEAM programs, coding/robotics programs and Safe Sitter programs are all good for kid in this age range.
For the whole family/community: Events like Space Day, Merry Prairie, Library on the Prairie, art contests, film-making competitions, bestselling author events, puppet programs and holiday events are available for anyone.
Not only does JCPL have incredible programs, but it also has a “Library of Things.”
You can check out things for all ages, like microscopes, sewing machines, musical instruments, games of all kinds, Wilton baking pans, cookie cutters, Cricut Joy, and experience passes to museums, parks, and pools. Outdoor lawn games, steam kits and so much more.
All of the above are ways we grandparents can use the library as a resource — and we haven’t even talked about the books yet! JCPL has a fabulous collection of books for all ages and genres. It consistently adds new books to its collection.
They also have a wide variety of digital resources, including books, music, movies and games.
If you are a grandparent, whether you have very young grandchildren or grandchildren that are a bit older, whether you spend time with them weekly or they come for a week-long visit from out of town, the library is the place for you. Pick up the current library program guide, check it out online PageAfterPage.org/guide and use the most incredible FREE resource available.
I said it before, and I’ll say it again: the Johnson County Public Library is an excellent resource for grandparents.
Diane Erney is a financial assistant for Johnson County Public Library, and a grandma. Send comments to [email protected].
