Josephine Community Libraries to open Children’s Room by winter break

Grants Pass, November 25, 2008-When Josephine Community Libraries launched its summer reading program in July, volunteers pledged, “We’ll get books in kids’ hands anyway we can!” The library group is now proud to announce its adherence to that pledge with the opening of the Children’s Room on December 20, 2008, the first day of winter break for area schools.

“This is an exciting time to have our children’s room opening!” said Debbie Bennighof, the new volunteer children’s librarian for Josephine Community Libraries. “With school out, children will have an opportunity to check out books and enjoy library services that haven’t been in place for over a year and a half. This truly is a holiday present to our community’s children, and I am so honored to be a part of it.”

Children will be treated to a special ride on JCLI’s version of the train in The Polar Express, complete with hot chocolate and a reading of the book. Circulation will also be available in the Children’s Room only, so kids can check out books over the holidays.

Rumors are also circulating that Santa may be stopping by to check out the action.

The opening will have something for grown-ups, too: a sneak peek at the new library. Though check-out will be unavailable as the circulation system will still be getting installed, the community is invited to preview the rest of the library, meet staff, talk to volunteers, and become a member of Josephine Community Libraries.

“Come by and see what we’re doing,” invited Doug Walker, president of the Board of Directors of Josephine Community Libraries. “And if our computer network system is functioning by December 20, you can even get yourself a JCLI library card!”

Walker also notes that the group is working tirelessly to get the library ready for opening. “We got the keys to the building last week, and since then we’ve been installing computers and phone systems, signing contracts with booksellers, scrubbing floors and windows, doing inventory of the books, and generally getting the library ready for our opening.”

The libraries in Josephine County closed on May 17, 2007. In September 2007, committed community members formed Josephine Community Libraries, Inc., a nongovernmental, nonprofit organization dedicated to reopening and operating the libraries in Josephine County. People interested in getting involved with the library effort can send an e-mail to info@josephinelibrary.org. Those interested in becoming member can send their check or money order payable to “Josephine Community Libraries” to P.O. Box 1684, Grants Pass, OR 97528 or make a secure donation on the Web site, www.josephinelibrary.org.

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Josephine Community Libraries, Inc.

P.O. Box 1684 Grants Pass, OR 97528

541-660-6531

info@josephinelibrary.org www.josephinelibrary.org