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.
Susan Hunter, President of the Library Board of Directors, spoke on behalf of the board, thanking two very special groups of people in the community for their generosity.
“This past May, the Bald Eagle Fire Hall donated their facilities, equipment, time and supplies to make our Basket Bingo a success,” said Hunter. “Through their generous donations we were able to decrease our expense, which in turn increases our local fundraising effort. We truly appreciate their gracious donation to the library.”
The second group Hunter wanted to thank is the Park Avenue Playground children. This summer, the children, along with their advisors, held a walk-a-thon to raise money for their program. They also decided to donate some of the money raised to the library’s children’s section. Together, the children raised $1,000 for the library.
“We are happy to say that because of their efforts and generous donation, we will be adding two new computers to the children’s section for these kids to use when they visit the library,” Hunter continued.
So, just what can the library offer this community? A little something for everyone. There is story hour for the youngsters and the young at heart. Literacy classes, GED classes, community activities, library tours, 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.
This summer’s reading program hosted 87 children.
“We take great pride in serving the children of our community,” said Hunter, “These kids are really excited about the programs and offerings at the library and look forward to them.”
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.
Hunter said there are many programs available, from pre-school to senior citizen.
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.
