What can the Tyrone-Snyder Public Library do for you?
Everyone knows the library is a great place to get a book or find a quiet place to study. However, many area residents may not realize just how much the library has to offer.
It has something for everyone. There is story hour for the youngsters and the young at heart. Literacy classes, GED classes, community activities, library tours, used book sales, special summer activities, summer reading programs and coupon and magazine exchanges are also offered. The library houses books, videos, magazines and audio books on tape and CD.
However, these activities and programs would not be possible without the support of the community. Once again, the library kicked off its yearly fundraising drive in order to continue providing the many services offered here in Tyrone.
The library has also introduced new programs that offer wonderful experiences that reach out to many people, young and old. New this year is the Teen Advisory Board, created to involve the youth in the area.
Library Board president Susan Hunter said there are many programs available, from pre-school to senior citizen.
Currently, a new program titled, “Family Place Library 1-2-3, Play With Me!” is set to begin.
This free program is for families of children birth to three-years-old.
For five weeks parents and their children can attend the play group that is presented in an early childhood setting filled with toys, art activities and books.
Parents are encouraged to play with their children, meet with other parents or caregivers and become familiar with the library and community resources.
Each week a different community professional will be present with advice on playing with your child, nutrition, community resources, hearing and other information.
Parents or caregivers may sign up now by calling 684-1133 ext. 4.
The sessions will run from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. on Thursdays beginning October 18 and lasting through November 15. Space will be limited so call now to reserve a spot.
Besides programming, the library also provides various equipment and facilities.
The computer lab provides an excellent place to retreat from the summer heat. Not just for research anymore, individuals can surf the web, research vacation hot spots and book travel arrangements. Public access computers provide high speed Internet connections, Microsoft Office software and access to the PA Power Library database.
Need to fax information or make a few copies? The library can help. The copy machine and fax services are available for public use.
For those individuals who find family history interesting, the library building boasts a genealogy room, perfect for researching the family tree. The Charles W. Banas, Jr. Tyrone Historical Room is home to historical information about Tyrone. Several local family genealogies can be found in there, along with some local cemetery listings, obituaries, TAHS yearbooks and area maps. The historical room comfortably seats six.
Can’t find the book you’re looking for? Through Interlibrary Loan, the library can help locate books from other libraries that are not available in Tyrone.
Many people may not realize that the Wesley S. Long Community Room, located in the library, is available for use by the public. Located in the rear of the building, the community room can be closed off from the library, allowing events to be held there after the library has closed. With a separate entrance and bathroom access, it’s perfect for organizations or individuals to use for meetings or special events. There is seating for 30 people and a kitchenette for coffee breaks. Also available is a computer projector and screen, television for showing instructional videos, a chalk board and a white board. Access for evening meetings is free to non-profit groups. There is a charge for other groups. Interested individuals may contact the library to make reservations.
“As you can see, the library has so much to offer, but we wouldn’t be able to provide all of these services without your financial support to help offset the operating expenses of the library,” said Hunter. “Many people don’t realize that the amount of funding the library receives from the county and the state is determined by our local fundraising efforts.
“The more money we raise through our donors, the more support we receive from the county and state.
“Our goal this year is to raise $20,000.” Hunter explained. “We appreciate those who have contributed in the past and thank you for your continued support. If you haven’t contributed in the past, please come in and check us out.”
Hunter hopes that after a visit to the library, individuals will consider making a contribution.
“We think you’ll like what you find,” she said, “and if you aren’t able to make a large donation, consider making a recurring monthly payment through our secure website. at www.tyronelibrary.org.”
The library is open Monday and Friday from noon to 5 p.m., Tuesday and Thursday from noon to 8 p.m. and Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Parking is available behind the building, off of 10th Street. There is also a handicap entrance off of the rear parking lot. Questions can be directed to the library at 684-1133.
