Who doesn't like something for free

[sue_c]

Times are tough and who isn't thinking about stretchng their budget. I have a suggestion: a library card. Our area hosts many great libraries, but the one I'm most familiar with is the one in Howard Lake. A library card lets you visit distant places, different times and even become someone else through reading a book. Modern libraries offer books, of course, but also music CDs, DVDs, audio book downloads, internet access, magazines, newspapers and more. Whew!!!! And just wait until I tell you about the GREAT Summer Library Program the younger crowd has to look forward to starting in June. Save some money: stretch your mind and your budget.

[IvanRaconteur]

Excellent suggestion! We are very lucky in this country to have access to such a wealth of information for learning and entertainment, and, as you pointed out, it is all free. And, for people of all ages, spending time in libraries is a much better choice than staring at the latest round of "reality" shows on television.

[sue_c]

If you are reading this, I'm glad you found it. When I started this topic, I was reading about how a forum works, and clicked on that page, and here it is. It would be nice to get this moved to some place more appropriate. Now to the free things: tonight, I was at the H L library and used their new wireless internet access. It really works well. I brought my WIFI enabled laptop from home, clicked a few times and ZOOM--I was searching. No code needed, and I haven't heard about a time limit, either. I have dialup at home and it takes a really long time to load some of the pages. This is so much faster, that it is worth my trip to the library. Of course, there are two internet computers for public use. You can take a chance if one is free, or to be assured you will get your time, call the library and reserve one. Their number is 320.543.2020.

[sue_c]

Here is something for parents/caregivers of children 3 to 7 years old. The Friends of the Howard Lake Library sponsor storytime at the Howard Lake Library. It is presented by Konnie Miller, and she is just GREAT. She presents stories & fun activities. The next storytime is Friday April 4. It runs from 10:30 to 11:15 AM. Storytimes will also be held April 18, May 9 & May 23. Times are the same. Parents are asked to stay with their munchkins during storytime. There is no limit on the number who may attend, and no charge either. In other words, it's FREE. If you have any questions, please contact the HL Library at 320.543.2020. Have a great day.

[sue_c]

Our local library offers many free items, but did you know it also has the daily Star Tribune newspaper? Many folks who find the daily paper just too expensive, but still like to get their news the "old fashioned" way, stop in and enjoy a leisurely read. The library also subscribes to the Herald-Journal (sorry about that, subscription person) and the Wright County Journal-Press. With the new furniture just provided by the Friends of the Library, enjoy a comfy chair or rocker, and enjoy your paper--for free!

[sue_c]

The big news at the Howard Lake Library for youngsters through teens is the Summer Library Program. This is a part of the Great River Regional Library (GRRL) program. By reading books, participants earn incentives (prizes) and keep their minds active. GRRL offers grand prizes system wide, but the Friends of the Howard Lake Library offer 2 grand prizes locally, as well as the weekly prizes. Stop at the library and check them out. For the younger group, there is a red and silver Razor scooter with a red safety helmet. The teens can try for a great shelf sound system. Even if you are the parent or caregiver of very young children, the time you read to them would count toward the program. The program for the younger set is "Look What's Cooking at Your Library" with the teens' theme: "Feed Your Mind--Read". Remember, it's FREE to sign up. The librarians have all the info you need. 320.543.2020. Next time, info about two special programs coming in June.

[sue_c]

Your muchkins either are or soon will be out of school for the summer. Swimming lessons, ball games and just lazing around. But here are two fun events to checkout at the Howard Lake Library. June 25th brings Chef Roberto and his Magical Cooking Show to the library. Chef Roberto will do many original tricks & illusions based on popular children's books. The Chef will choose assistants from the audience to participate in the program. The fun starts at 3:30 PM at the Howard Lake Library.

The second event will be held on June 27th at 2 PM. Austin Texas' Sue Young will present bilingual songs & stories. This is an event for all ages. You won't be disappointed. Sue is a friend of local artist Marienne Kreitlow. As always, contact the library for more information: 320.543.2020. And of course, the best part of this pair of events----THEY'RE FREE!!!

[sue_c]

For some, nothing says a lazy summer day better than the beach and a good book. Others don't have the time, but can still enjoy a good book. Did you know that the library has many books on tape available? Some are on cassette and many are on CD, and there is a program to download some materials. It doesn't have to be fiction either: many self-help, biography etc. are on the shelves of the HL library. And if you have a special request, GRRL's website allows you to search and reserve a copy. Check it out at: http://www.griver.org The librarians are extremely helpful, and will guide you through the entire process if you have questions. Remember to spread the word that if someone doesn't have a computer with internet access at home, the library maintains a computer just for searching the library's main catalog. Or a phone call to those helpful librarians will work, too. Now you are required to get a library card to use these services, but you know the drill--- getting a card is FREE!!!

[SherryH]

Besides all the great books, movies, tapes, magazines, computers and newspapers that can be found at the library don't forget one great reason to spend some quality time their.....Air Conditioning! Yes...they even make it comfortable while we're there.

[sue_c]

A big bowl of buttery popcorn, the family or good friends gathered together, and a great movie to watch. $7.00 admission, $3.00 or more for popcorn and soda pop equals $$$$???? How about saving that money and gas by staying home with a movie from the library. If you didn't realize, the library has a great selection of current and older films available on DVD & VHS format. Drama, comedy, kids' shows, cartoons, nature films and more are waiting for you to check them out. The selection changes from day to day. And if you have a special request, you may place an order for it over the internet. Of course, the librarians will be glad to help if you aren't comfortable with using a computer. With a library card, films may be kept for 7 days. And the best part of this is : the movies are FREE!! (Popcorn, pop & people not included)