Lodi Library is a wonderful resource

The Lodi Library is a wonderful resource for my whole family, but most importantly for my son, Erik, who was 3 when we first moved to the area. Before he knew how to read, he went to pre-school story hour with Kristine. He has attended the library Halloween Party and Parade, also organized by Kristine, each year. He started kindergarten and began reading on his own last year, and he participated in the summer reading program last summer. He enjoyed the library sponsored performances in Habermann Park, and he entered his drawing of Billy, Blaze and Rex from the book "Billy and Blaze" (by C.W. Anderson) in the library appreciation week contest. He was very excited to see his drawing displayed in the library entry way and even more excited to win a free scoop of custard from Culver's.

This year Erik is in first grade, which means he is old enough for his own library card. He was thrilled check out "free books and movies" with his new card. The R.E.A.D. Program -- reading to Grady the dog -- is something he looks forward to every week. Grady's owner/handler, Maureen, is so patient and kind to my son. Erik does great with sight words, but is having a little trouble with phonics. Maureen lets me know if she sees any trouble areas. This helps me assist my son with becoming a better reader. A time slot must be booked ahead of time in order to read with Grady, and Erik has learned how to schedule his own time slot with the librarians. After a child reads to Grady four times they get to select a book, and Erik was delighted to be able to pick out a Chronicles of Narnia book and a DK version of Black Beauty.

My son has some out of the ordinary interests for a child his age. He is interested in Vikings, knights and mythology. We have been able to find many age appropriate books, even a Level 1 Lego Knight book that he could read himself. He is also very interested in plants and animals. The Lodi Library staff is extremely helpful in finding books and movies about whatever subjects interest Erik.

When I mentioned to Nancy that my son was interested in learning about the lynx, she suggested taking him to McKenzie Center so he could see one. When I saw her recently, she reminded me that maple syrup collection at the McKenzie center would be coming up soon. The fact that she remembers what my child is interested in is just one example of the excellent customer service all of the librarians provide.

--Kirstin Alsaker, Lodi Public Library (02/11)