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.
This year the library has introduced new programs that offer wonderful experiences that reach out to many people, young and old. The new Family Place Grant has been so successful, the first session filled immediately and the waiting list grew quickly into a second offering.
The summer reading program also offers much anticipated excitement this year as participants discover the world of “Paws, Claws, Scales and Tales.” This is sure to be an exciting summer at the library for everyone.
Also, 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. Six 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.
“We are here to serve your needs,” said Library Board President, Susan Hunter. “For those unable to travel to the library, let the library come to you.”
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.
Although the library receives significant state funding to cover a portion of its operating expenses, the library must still make up the difference.
“Our goal this year is to raise $16,000 by August 14 to meet our budget so that we may continue to offer effective library services to you and your family,” 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.
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.
“We would like to invite everyone to stop in,” said librarian Lynne Nearhoof, “Let us know what direction you would like to see the library take in the future.”
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.
