Sumter County Library - A Place For You!

Libraries Change Lives

2012-01-18T11:27:00.001-05:00

A young woman visited the Reference Desk a few weeks ago. She was distressed because she had to write a paper for Graduate School. The young woman had been out of school a few years and did not know where to start. The paper required articles from reputable online journals. I explained to the young woman there was an online resource called DISCUS (Digital Information for South Carolina Users) available where she could possibly locate these articles. After a few minutes of showing her the various databases and how to search for these articles, the student felt much better on beginning her paper. Knowing how to find and use information in a helpful manner gave this student a new start.

They say knowledge is power. The student gained a new set of tools to improve her studies and, consequently, her life, by learning technologies that will allow her a greater understanding of knowledge. As a Reference Librarian, I find it fascinating and encouraging that public libraries provide the basic tools, knowledge and skills to advance in education, careers and in life. I find it thrilling to help a patron with a puzzling genealogy question or teach a beginning Microsoft Excel user how to create spreadsheets. I feel very lucky to have the opportunity to help improve lives.

Libraries change lives. Individuals and communities thrive when libraries are there to assist those who need answers to questions other places simply cannot provide. The library is a free resource to those in the community who could not afford a test preparation guide, history books or internet access. In 2012, the Sumter County Library continues to offer free computer classes, a financial improvement program, author fair, a King James Bible festival, English as a Second Language classes, children’s programming and much more. Consider joining the Friends of the Sumter County Library to help support our mission:

The Sumter County Library is dedicated to the promotion of life-long learning. We believe that citizens of every age are important patrons of the Library. Through its Downtown library, community branches, and bookmobile, all residents shall be afforded access to authoritative information to meet their personal, educational, and professional needs.

Thank you.

Winniford A. Simmons III
Reference and Information Services Coordinator

Forrest Ray 5k

2011-10-11T11:39:00.000-04:00

The sixth annual Forrest Ray 5k was held at the Sumter County Library on October 8, 2011 to raise funds for the library collection. It was a great success, due in no small part to those who support the event financially and by volunteering. First and foremost the family of Forrest Ray, the 5k founder. Forrest was a great supporter of the library’s role in providing recreational and educational materials for the Sumter community. Thanks to all who came out to run or walk and support the library. SAFE Federal Credit Union, our presenting sponsor for the past five years, is crucial to the success of the 5k. Thanks also go out to all of our sponsors: the YMCA (very special thanks to Cheryl Huggins), IGA, Piggly Wiggly, Five Guys, the 1895 Inn at Savannah, Sumter County Active Lifestyles (more special thanks to Catherine Blumberg), McLeod Cardiology Associates Sumter, the Kiwanis Club of Sumter, and Driver’s Choice Low Cost Auto Insurance. Greatly appreciated are the volunteers from the Girl Scouts from Fanny Ivey Service Unit #655 and Troop 2292 for taking care of the water stations, the USC-Fire Ants for directing runners on the race route, Sumter Law Enforcement for directing traffic, and the Friends of the Library. All sorts of honorable mentions go out to the very hardworking and dedicated staff of the Sumter County Library. Finally, special thanks to Senator Phil Leventis for his support of the race and his efforts on behalf of libraries. He gets an A+ from us.

Robert Harden/Director

Challenges and changes

2011-07-14T09:14:00.000-04:00

These are challenging times for public libraries across the country. Many have had to close branch locations and reduce hours of operation. The Sumter County Library has also experienced budget reductions on the local and state level.

Thankfully, all our branch locations will remain open. However, beginning August 1, 2011, the Sumter County Library System will change its hours of operation to:

Downtown Library (111 North Harvin Street/803-773-7273)

Monday – Tuesday 9:00 – 8:00
Wednesday – Friday 9:00 – 6:00
Saturday – Sunday 2:00 – 6:00

Wesmark Branch Library (180 West Wesmark Boulevard/803-469-8110)

Monday – Friday 9:00 – 6:00

South Sumter Branch Library (337 Manning Avenue/803-775-7132)

Monday – Friday 10:00 – 2:00

Despite these changes, a public library facility will be open each day of the week. We look forward to offering the Sumter community entertaining and educational programs as well as providing books, audio books and e-books, DVDs, online databases, and many other services. For more information, contact any library location or visit us online at www.sumtercountylibrary.org

Robert Harden
Director

This Summer Is Hot, Hot, Hot!

2011-06-09T09:50:00.004-04:00

The Sumter County Library promises you a summer full of hot events and services for all ages and community members. As we do every year, the Library is beginning its Summer Reading Program, sponsored by the Friends of the Sumter County Library. This year, the theme is "One World, Many Stories". Parents are encouraged to register their children at their branch of choice. The sheer amount of events this year promises to entertain children and families alike. There will be crafts, movies, story times, ToddlerTuesdays at the Wesmark branch and of course our special guests. These special guests include the Penny Boyes dancers, The Musical World of John English, Sarah Dippity, Pat the Pack Rat, A Def Rappin' Poetry Jam and more! There is so much to do this year that a boring summer is out of the question!

For adults, the Sumter County Library continues its Computer Classes until the beginning of August. Classes in Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Computer Basics, Keyboarding and E-Mail are offered. If you want to see and try out a Barnes and Noble Nook or Amazon Kindle, consider attending our E-Reader events at Main (August 6 @ 3pm) and Wesmark (July 11 @ 6pm). Free refreshments will be provided. Call 773.7273 to sign up for our computer classes or for more information on the E-Reader events!

We hope to see you this Summer at the Sumter County Library!

National Library Week April 10-16

2011-04-11T12:16:00.002-04:00

This week, April 10 – 16th, is National Library Week, a time to celebrate libraries in Sumter County and across the nation. Sumter’s Carnegie Library on West Liberty Street opened its doors in 1917. The opening reception was held on December 3rd, and the first librarian in charge was Miss Grace Randle, a local elementary school teacher. I remember trips to the Carnegie Library on Liberty when I was a boy, going down to the children’s department in the basement. Mrs. Mattie Ivey was the children’s librarian, and I little realized that I would be working alongside her one day. I began working part-time at the Sumter County Library in 1980 while a student at USC-Sumter. By that time, the library had moved to its present location on Harvin Street. Mrs. Ivey would retire in 1988, after 39 years of service.
My career goal at one time had been teaching. Once I entered the doors of the Library, however, I never left. I don’t believe I have left the goal of teaching behind, however. Libraries are very much a part of the educational process. Thomas Jefferson wrote, “If a nation expects to be ignorant and free, in a state of civilization, it expects what never was and never will be . . . The people cannot be safe without information. When the press is free, and every man is able to read, all is safe.”
I was first hired to work at the library by Chapman J. (Jimmy) Milling. Mr. Milling had come to Sumter as director of the Carnegie Public Library in 1955. He was Director for thirty years before retiring in 1985. Sumter County was fortunate to have his service. He was instrumental in moving the library from the overcrowded building on Liberty into a new facility on Harvin Street in 1968. Jimmy Milling was a talented, cultured individual who greatly expanded the library collection, paying particular attention to the arts. Many of his selections on art, music and literature are still on the library shelves. He certainly could be described as a renaissance man – his knowledge and interests branched out into many different subject areas and disciplines.
Mr. Milling was a gifted artist and writer. He was a long time member and contributor to the Sumter Poetry Club. He also wrote for the Item, reviewing local art shows and exhibits. Jimmy Milling made important contributions to the cultural life of Sumter. His contributions to library services in Sumter County cannot be overstated and are still being felt today.

Robert Harden
Director

National Library Week

2011-04-08T15:53:00.003-04:00

April 10th through the 16th is National Library Week. National Library Week commenced in 1958 and ever since has been held in observance by the American Library Association and libraries across the nation. National Library Week is a time for all people to celebrate the freedom and sense of community libraries bring to cities, towns and villages throughout the United States.

We especially hope you celebrate National Library Week by visiting the Main, Wesmark or South Sumter branches of the Sumter County Library. When you drop by we especially you hope you take the time to walk around the library and notice all that is offered to the public on a daily basis. The Sumter County Library offers computer classes year-round and workforce development assistance for those in need of employment. The Sumter County Library creates new and interesting programming such as an art show, yoga, travel planning workshop, poetry group, book clubs (online and off), story times, movies and much more.

While we still lend your favorite books and movies, the Library is now, more than ever, a centrally based community center where people from all over the community visit to talk, study, read, learn and grow. Our meeting rooms (available by reservation, to all) are constantly used by personal, civic and government groups. The Sumter County Library is the one place where big or small, rich or poor, can come together and grow as individuals and citizens.

Celebrate National Library Week with us.

Ford Simmons
Reference and Information Services Coordinator

SumterWorks

2011-02-22T09:00:00.003-05:00

You may have seen the following article in Sunday's edition of The Item:

Library's SumterWorks Assists With Employment Issues

In the article, Ivy Moore states that 1 in 10 Sumter residents are unemployed. That is a large portion of the county population. In fact, the unemployment rate for Sumter County in December 2010 was 12.4%, higher than the state average of 10.7%. This is a staggering number. However, the Sumter County Library aims to help Sumter County residents learn the relevant skills needed to enter the workforce.

Thanks to a Library Services and Technology Act grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services administered by the South Carolina State Library, the Library has developed a workforce-development project entitled "SumterWorks". SumterWorks is a multi-faceted project designed to help Sumter residents be prepared to enter the workforce. The project features classes on the following subjects:

Resume Development
The Job Interview
Applying for Jobs Online
Setting Up An Email Account

With grant funds, the Library has purchased 4 new computers and an all-in-one printer for the public to use in our computer lab. Anyone may come into the lab during specified times and receive personal help in developing a resume or applying for jobs online.

All classes and lab times are located on the SumterWorks website:

http://www.sumtercountylibrary.org/sumterworks.html

The website features extensive local job listings, links to job search websites, online tutorials for resume development and computer skills and more.

In addition to our classes and lab hours the Library has purchased over 100 books related to career development and technology. Combined with our computer classes on relevant computer skills, the SumterWorks project is sure to help our community recover in this economic climate.

Ford Simmons
Reference and Information Services Coordinator

2011-02-07T09:18:00.001-05:00

Advocating for public libraries can be a difficult and frustrating experience. Often you are called upon to explain what the library does in just a few minutes with as few words as possible. You try and focus on the big ticket items such as early childhood literacy and providing computers, internet access, and staff help for those looking for employment or filing for benefits online. Yes, these are very important, but they are only a few parts of a very big picture.

That picture includes the library patron who watched as our bookmobile navigated icy roads and a library staff member hand delivered books to a community center. The patron was moved enough to write a letter to the editor of the Item. The picture includes a patron who sent a staff member an email of thanks for helping her with a problem she was having downloading onto her e-reader, thanking him for his kindness and patience. The picture includes a new resident to Sumter who writes that they “came to the library every day and utilized the internet in my job search. It was through this search that I found my first job in Sumter.” The picture includes a family struggling through tough times that come to the library for study space and computer access. The picture includes youngsters from day care and head start centers who come to the library and listen while someone reads them a story. The picture includes parents who could not afford to send their daughter to college and came to the library for information on financial aid and scholarships. They later wrote back to thank the staff member who helped them and to let us know their daughter had obtained a scholarship and was beginning her freshman classes. The picture includes the senior citizen who came to a computer class at the library, and said “I can’t wait to go home and tell my family what I learned today.”

We are often told to focus on the “big” picture, but many times the big picture is made up of many small pictures, each important and significant on its own.

So even though it can be difficult and frustrating, please advocate for support of the Sumter County Library. Libraries are important. They are part of the picture of every community. And every community would be a poorer place without them.

Robert Harden
Director

A New Year Equals New Events at Your Library

2011-01-04T10:41:00.002-05:00

"The Year"
Ella Wheeler Wilcox

"What can be said in New Year rhymes,
That’s not been said a thousand times?

The new years come, the old years go,
We know we dream, we dream we know..."

Welcome to 2011, everyone. As we enter another year here at the Sumter County Library, we are grateful for the many great programs in 2010 such as "One Night At The Cotton Club", a Career Fair, "Everybody Eats Rice", the Summer Reading Program, Computer Classes, "A Gingerbread Christmas" and much more. We at your Library are extremely grateful for the support you all have provided and will continue to provide in 2011.

We would also like to give our most sincerest thanks and blessings to the Friends of the Library. The Book Sale, held at the Sumter Mall in November, was a complete success. Everything they do for the Library is crucial in continuing to offer the very best in service, programming and materials to the community. If you are not a member of the Friends of the Library, we encourage you to join and participate to help continue to make the Sumter County Library a true "community hub".

2011 promises new and exciting programming at the Sumter County Library.

Our Spring 2011 Computer Classes begin January 10th and stretch all the way through the end of May. The following classes are planned:

Computer Basics
Keyboarding
Microsoft Word
Microsoft Excel
Microsoft Powerpoint
Ancestry.com
E-Mail

We have scheduled many, many classes to ensure everyone has a chance to sign up. If you are interested in taking a computer class, please visit the Reference Desk at the Main Library or call 773.7273. Computer Class schedules can be found at all library locations.

If you are interested in poetry, or simply want to learn and share poetry with others, please consider signing up for our Poetry Workshop. The workshop consists of 6 sessions, taking place once a month from January to June. Each session will feature a different type of poetic form. Only 10 spots are available, so to sign up for a spot please turn in 2 sample poems to Ford Simmons at the Reference Desk at the Main Library.

History your thing? Love genealogy? Our South Carolina History Room tours may be for you. The tour lasts one hour and consists of an explanation of the various resources available and how you may use them to conduct research. Dates for the tours are:

Thursday, January 27th @ 3pm
Thursday, February 17th @ 3pm
Thursday, March 10th @ 3pm
Monday, April 25th @ 3pm
Thursday, May 26th @ 3pm

Please sign up at the Reference Desk or by calling 773.7273.

As you can already tell, the Library is ready to help you master your information needs for 2011. So many more programs are in the works, so please stay tuned and continue to support the Sumter County Library. Thank you!

Friends Book Sale a Tremendous Success

2010-11-22T12:56:00.000-05:00

A recent blog article brought to my attention contained the following:

"Whether it’s eBooks, websites or some other form of digitized distribution mechanism, the writing is on the wall for the printed “dead tree” medium."

If you were at our Friends book sale the first week of November and saw the throngs of people including pre-school, teens, young adult, middle-aged, and seniors grabbing up books, you might wonder if the writing truly is on the wall for the "dead tree" medium.

The sale was a tremendous success. Thanks to Library staff for manual labor, Sumter County Public Works for transportation, the Sumter-Lee Regional Detention Center for help in setting up and taking down, the Exhibition Center for tables, Sumter Mall for lending us the space, and especially to the Friends of the Library for their hard work and support in making the annual book sale an event the Sumter community looks forward to year after year. These include Friends members who sort through donations throughout the year, those who set up for the sale in advance, and those who volunteer during the sale itself. And thanks to everyone who comes out to load up on books and support the library.

Finally, very special thanks to Suzanne and Jess Begley for both chairing the sale (Suzanne), and all their hard work (Suzanne and Jess) in making it happen.

The Library appreciates your support more than you can ever know.

Robert Harden
Director

An Update

2010-10-25T15:44:00.003-04:00

Hello again. It is now Fall. The leaves have changed colors and in the morning you are now experiencing chilly weather. Its a comforting time of year, a time for being closer with love ones, or to even become acquainted with a new book. We have the best new releases available for you this Fall and we hope you come to your closest library location to see them for yourself.

Early in October was our Forrest Ray 5k Run and Walk. It was a great success. We had so many runners and walkers eager to take part and it could not have been possible without the support and hard work of our volunteers. We would like to thank all our sponsors, individuals who helped plan and set up the race, including members of the USCS Fire Ants athletes who held signs directing runners where to go. Thanks to Ken Lowden of the United States Track and Field Association for measuring and certifying our race route. Thanks to Strictly Running for everything they do for us as well. We hope to make the race even more successful next year!

Our top overall winners hailed from Wilson Hall. Josh Jennings (18:48) and Anne-Davis Shaw (22:18) ran an excellent race. Wilson Hall also took home the Forrest Ray 5k Travelling Cup.

We would like to remind everyone our Friends of the Library Book Sale will be taking place November 3rd through the 7th at the Sumter Mall. This year's location is right beside JCPenney, across from LensCrafters. We have so many books this year for you to purchase so make your way out. The dates and times are as follows:

Wednesday, November 3rd (Friends Preview Night) 6pm to 8:30pm
Thursday, November 4th 4pm to 8:30pm
Friday, November 5th 4pm to 8:30pm
Saturday, November 6th 10am to 6pm
Sunday, November 7th (Bag of Books Day) 1:30pm to 5pm

If you are not a member of the Friends yet, please consider. The Library has faced significant budget cuts that have impacted our ability to purchase new items. Thank you for supporting your Library. We hope to see you at the Book Sale!

Sumter County Library Video Blog

2010-09-09T13:50:00.001-04:00

Check it out!

A Summer Reading Success

2010-08-10T11:34:00.003-04:00

Thanks to everyone who enrolled in the Summer Reading Program or attended events as part of the program. 1481 children enrolled in Summer Reading while 2116 people attended Summer Reading Events, a record! That is over 3500 people who enriched their minds over the Summer break. These numbers truly show how important Summer Reading Programs are to our community's youth.

During the Summer, it is far too easy for children to dislodge their minds from the day-to-day academic activities found in school. Instead of reading a book or learning new concepts from activities or presenters, children stare at television screens. The mind forgets all of the lessons learned during a school year. This is not a good thing for a child. A child must continue to learn and grow all year long so they have healthy and productive lives as adults.

Children who participate in Summer Reading events have better grades because they are more confident and prepared. Minds are focused because they have been learning and growing all summer. And this happens due to the hard work of library staff and community members willing to form a positive community. We hope you continue to support the Sumter County Library in its mission to enrich the lives of children and adults through knowledge.

A Summer Reading success is a success for the community.

2010 End of Summer Reading Party

2010-08-09T10:12:00.001-04:00

Check out this video of our End of Summer Reading Party. Much fun was had!

2010 End of Summer Reading Party

2010-08-05T08:54:00.001-04:00

Children's Librarian/Public Relations Representative Janet Caldwell discusses the party:

Libraries and Netflix

2010-07-26T13:26:00.002-04:00

Today I read an article claiming libraries loan more movies than Netflix.

Libraries Loan More Movies Than Netflix

A recent study by OCLC, a nonprofit library co-operative and research organization, stated libraries loan over 2 million videos a day, slightly more than Netflix. What does that say about our communities? Families are looking to save money in any way possible. Is it cheap to subscribe to Netflix instead of going to the movies? Sure. Is it cheaper to rent the same movies at a library for free instead of using Netflix and/or going out to the movies? Absolutely.

Libraries contribute to our communities by doing more than loaning books. Libraries promote ideas through programs, magazines, newspapers, movies, comic books, audio books, educational tools, internet resources and more. Families and individuals these days are looking to stimulate their minds without spending money. Why buy a magazine when you can read it at the library? Why purchase a classic Jazz compact disc when you can check it out for free?

Come to the Sumter County Library today and read a new magazine and perhaps meet a new friend. Perhaps bond over a new movie.

Byki Foreign Language Training

2010-07-16T09:00:00.003-04:00

Do you want to learn how to speak a foreign language? Are you traveling to another country and need to learn how to ask for directions/call a cab/etc.? Do you need to brush up on your language skills for a class or your degree? If so, Byki Foreign Language Training is for you. Byki is an online interactive language software tool. Byki is free. All you have to do is sign up for Byki in the library. Then you can use it anywhere on your laptop or home computer. Check out this helpful video created by library staff on how to use Byki.

Rappin' Poetry Slam!

2010-07-02T11:53:00.003-04:00

The Sumter County Library presented a Rappin' Poetry Slam on July 30th, 2010. Children and teens performed raps and spoken word about reading and literacy.

Magician Brandon Wagster at the Library

2010-06-25T08:49:00.000-04:00

State Funding Is Needed For Libraries

2010-06-11T13:24:00.003-04:00

Governor Mark Sanford has recently decided to cut state aid to public libraries in South Carolina. What does that mean for your library? It means we need all of you, our great patrons, Friends of the Library members and community partners to notify your local senator or representative and let them know this cannot stand. Libraries are the hub of our communities. Without them, where would so many people go to apply for jobs, improve their education, hold important meetings which tie communities and neighborhoods together? Our local and state economies will certainly suffer if funding to our library and other public libraries around the state are cut even further.

Please take the time to contact your local legislator and let them know how much we mean to you and for our. If you do not know your local legislator, use the following link:

SC Statehouse Search

Thank you so much for your support!

Everybody Eats Rice

2010-05-18T09:02:00.004-04:00

Check out footage from our Everybody Eats Rice event on May 15th!

New Video Blog

2010-05-03T12:32:00.002-04:00

Happenings

2010-04-19T10:16:00.002-04:00

As we enter another hot Southern summer, the library is gearing up to provide the Sumter community with interesting programs and services.

We are offering a full array of computer classes in May, June and July. Basic Computer Skills, Keyboarding, Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel and Ancestry.com will be taught at the Main Library. For a complete schedule, visit our Programs page at our website. To sign up for a class, call 773.7273.

Do you enjoy eating rice? Who doesn't? On May 15th, the Library presents Everybody Eats Rice from 2 to 4pm at the Main Library. Enjoy a Rice Cookoff, a movie presentation from ETV, amazing Rice Dancers and more! For information, call 773.7273.

We are also glad to announce our Wii Night was a big success and we will be having the program again in a few months!

Thank you for your patronage of the Library and we hope to see you soon!

Sumter County Library - Staff Reviews

2010-04-05T13:40:00.001-04:00

Here is a review from Children's Librarian Karen Edgar on a few great books for the month of April!

Sumter County Library - Staff Reviews

Third Army Expo

2010-03-19T13:18:00.002-04:00

I was very fortunate to be able to attend the Third Army/US Army Central Strategic Relocation Expo held at Fort McPherson, Georgia this week. The Sumter County Library joined many other County and City agencies in representing the community to both the military and civilian workers who will be relocating to Sumter. In my opinion the Expo was a resounding success. I know that a great deal of effort went into the groundwork for this event by representatives from SHAW, Sumter, and Fort McPherson. They deserve credit for an outstanding job. The people of Fort McPherson went out of their way to make us visitors from Sumter welcome. I was glad to be able to represent our community and especially the Library. Hundreds of people came through the Expo. Everyone seemed to enjoy the event and I believe they gained a very good impression of what the City and County of Sumter has to offer. Those who stopped at the Library table were especially interested in the programs and services we offer for children. We will certainly look forward to welcoming them to Sumter as graciously as they welcomed us this week.
Robert Harden/Director

New Video Blog!!

2010-02-08T15:00:00.001-05:00

Thanks to Friends

2010-02-04T15:28:00.000-05:00

Friends of the Library fundraisers in 2009 raised close to $20,000 for the Sumter County Library. Both the Fourth Annual Forrest Ray 5K and the Annual Book Sale were great successes; not only financially, but also in generating positive PR for the Library. These annual events are highly anticipated. The Library receives calls year round asking where and when the book sale will be held. Volunteering at the Book Sale, I hear many people tell me they look forward to the event every year.

Each fundraiser is a collaborative effort. The 5K has a committee that begins meeting in late spring each year to begin planning for the October race. Friends' volunteers organize books for the sale year round, and many Friends give generously of their time to organize, set up, and run the sale itself. What would the Library do without your generous assistance?

The Sumter County Library has experienced cuts in its funding the last two years. Money generated from Friends’ fundraisers help us “fill in the gaps” in the budget. How do we use that money?

To answer that question, I think the first step is to ask what the Library does. The Library mission statement begins, “The Sumter County Library is dedicated to the promotion of life-long learning that enhances the cultural, recreational, and education needs of the community it serves.” The Library helps deliver quality education for everyone. It does this by providing self-directed education through a collection of items in print and online. The Library is a source of research assistance and instruction for individuals and groups. Classes, seminars, and workshops for all ages taught or facilitated by library instructors. The Library also presents Instructive and enlightening experiences through cultural and community center concepts, events and partnerships.

Friends funding helps us in each and every one of these areas, particularly in programs and services to children, including the annual summer reading program. Recent research, released September 17, 2009 by Jumpstart, a nonprofit focused on early literacy intervention, highlights that reading to children during the early years, especially ages 3-5, when their brains are undergoing the most growth and development, sets the stage for all later learning and success in life. Intervening early to teach at-risk preschool children language, literacy, and social skills is critical. The widespread early childhood literacy crisis has an impact on the nation’s dropout rates, workforce competitiveness, and economy.

So whether you chair a committee, organize books for the sale, help to set up, spend your Saturday or Sunday at the Mall during the sale, donate or buy a book at the sale, help with the 5K – all of these contributions are like a pebble tossed into a pond. They ripple far beyond their immediate action and can positively affect people you may never meet, but who will benefit from your kindness and generosity.
Robert Harden/Director

A Random Thought on Libraries and Reading

2010-02-04T11:23:00.002-05:00

When one reads a text, whether that text is a book, magazine, newspaper, internet article, encyclopedia entry, you get the idea; one is gaining an attribute or a value. When we read, what are we doing, after all? We are learning a new word, phrase, idea, notion, parable, moral, fact, lie, etc. We also re-learn old ideas and idioms passed down to us through years of education, whether through the musings of a schoolteacher or whimsical Saturdays browsing through books in a Library.

So we learn, constantly, always through our printed pages, environments and experiences. As we learn, our brain develops and we evolve as human beings. So I position this: if reading, throughout its various forms, causes us to change and rationalize the world more independently and thoughtfully, does that mean the act of reading is the highest of human virtues? Going even further; are libraries the highest of places for knowledge and intellect? I believe so!

What Do We Mean To You?

2010-01-29T12:23:00.002-05:00

It has been quite a bit since we last posted on our blog. The past couple of weeks have been extremely busy here. Between teaching computer classes, planning new and exciting programs for our patrons or just simply dishing out answers on the Reference Desk, there has been an explosion of incoming patrons. We believe this shows an urgent need in the Sumter community for a library.

The Library means so much to our community because we do more than just check out books. We help people fax, make copies, scan documents, find older articles on microfilm, find research for an assignment, use Ancestry.com to form their family tree, assist in building resumes, teach computer classes...you get the idea.

If you are a patron of the Sumter County Library, please visit our website and fill out an online form telling us why the Sumter County Library is the best value in town.

Here is the link:

Comment Form

Also check out what other people have been saying at:

Patron Comments

Have a great weekend!

Keeping Track Of Your Books

2010-01-20T15:33:00.002-05:00

Sitting here at the Reference desk, I notice there are a lot of younger children up here rather than downstairs in the children's department. Odd, I thought, but the children are reading and being relatively quiet, so all is good and well here. As I notice them reading I realize how many books I read when I was a child, and how many of those books ive forgotten.

Have YOU ever thought about all the books you previously read? Did you want to make a list? There are now several great sites out there for anyone interesting in cataloging all the books they have ever had the pleasure of reading.

Here is a list:

1. Shelfari
http://www.shelfari.com/

2. GoodReads
http://www.goodreads.com

3. Library Thing
http://www.librarything.com

4. BiblioPhil
http://www.bibliophil.org

I, myself, prefer Shelfari, for no particular reason. Enjoy, and good reading to you!

-Winniford A. Simmons

A Saturday Snapshot

2010-01-16T09:47:00.002-05:00

Our Reference and Information Services Coordinator was recently featured in The Item, the newspaper for Sumter, Lee and Clarendon counties. Check it out here:

Winniford A. Simmons, Saturday Snapshot

What This Librarian Learned From Haiti

2010-01-15T15:26:00.002-05:00

As the weekend ushers in hopefully everyone will have a little time to reflect on the important things in our lives; our family, friends, health and the ability to think and feel so many different, yet incredible feelings and ideas. As I woke up this morning I turned on the television to find images of bodies being thrown into pits, people crying and mourning their lost loved ones and news reporters in pure shock at the tragedy continuing to unfold in Haiti. I could not help but shed a tear or two as I packed my things up to head to a job I loved doing, however in the long run, trivial it may be.

Then I realized what I do isn't trivial in the long run. Being a librarian, which is the art of helping others become better people through cultural enrichment and education, is something to be grateful for. I should be lucky enough to even have a job, to work with other great librarians and the ability to travel to meet with other librarians and people who care about information, knowledge, books and education. The sadness and despair Haiti is going through right now is horrible and I know I could never, ever imagine being in such a situation.

I mean, im on Twitter and writing a blog as part of my job! Its amazing!

But it makes me know how important it is that librarians and educators continue their work. We must give people hope that they can achieve whatever they set their minds towards. I don't care if that sounds cliche, but its more than true. It is life itself. Life is about improving oneself in order to become a better person that is better to everyone in their environment. Librarians can do this through awesome customer service, expert knowledge and a little hard work.

I know im just lucky enough to be slingin' books for a living.

Have a good weekend,

Winniford A. Simmons III
Reference and Information Services Coordinator

2010 U.S. Census

2010-01-14T11:38:00.002-05:00

Check out this YouTube video from the U.S. Census Bureau about the 2010 Census!

Ravens (Not the Baltimore football team)

2010-01-14T10:07:00.003-05:00

Today we are going to mix things up a bit. Here is a book review from The Item, written by Reference and Information Services Coordinator Winniford A. Simmons.

Ravens by George Dawes Green

Some people believe winning a massive amount of cash is a life-changing experience. In "Ravens," written by George Dawes Green, winning the lottery is a life-changing experience, but not necessarily for the better.

The Boatwright family in Brunswick, Ga., wins $318 million in the Georgia Lottery and believes their financial troubles are over. It just so happens that two dead beat and bored young men traveling to Florida hear about the lottery winnings. They take the family hostage hoping to get away with some of the money. Of course, all hell breaks loose, driving everyone – captor and hostages -- insane.

At times captivating, other times maddening, "Ravens" is a book one would expect to be jam-packed with action. This is not the case. I found the book to be focused much more on the characters; Shaw, the main villain, is a reprehensible human being, willing to take advantage of his hostages using kind words and false promises. His soothing, yet always threatening manner is a light for the captive Boatwrights.

The Boatwrights are portrayed as an insecure bunch; the mother, Patsy, a chronic drinker, is obsessed with the lottery; the father, Mitch, lacks self-confidence because he can't pay the bills; and Tina is good-natured at heart but easily swayed by the ways of the world and men. They eventually lean upon Shaw, finding some release in his sociopathic behavior.

"Ravens" is full of twists and turns, with the biggest shock happening at the end. It's an excellent twist and ending to a good read. Green, who lives partly in Georgia, truly captures the Southern lifestyle as we know it, one rapidly assimilating into a broader American culture. Find these books and others at the Sumter County Library.

-Link to The Item

So, who was her Second Cousin?

2010-01-13T15:28:00.003-05:00

What a busy day here at the library. From teaching computer classes, monitoring computers, riding on the Bookmobile and recommending readers, our Staff is constantly working towards providing the community with their personal, educational and recreational needs. We have had a good turnout for our computer classes so far, and everyone who takes the class learns something new.

As a librarian, I must say the chance to fill a patron's information need is probably the most rewarding aspect of the position. The feeling is especially strong when a patron brings in a very hard question which make take a good deal of time researching. At times these questions are few and far between, but when they do come, the time spent researching is rewarding because the answer is usually exciting.

So, random Q and A for you guys:

So what is possibly the toughest thing for a reference librarian to find?

I'll take Genealogy for $1000, Alex.

Genealogy questions take a good bit of time to research and often times we do not have the historical records to answer. Even though the internet has a ton of resources to assist with this research, we often times do not have first or last names, birthdates, or much of anything at all offered up by the patron. That does not mean we won't attempt to find answers. It just makes it all the more interesting!

If you have a question for us, please shoot us an email at sumref1@gmail.com!

-Winniford A. Simmons III

Reconceptualizing the Library, Or, We Aren't What You Think We Are

2010-01-12T09:02:00.003-05:00

"Libraries are useless, I can find all the information I need on the internet."

"Isn't that a place where a bunch of old books that smell sit on shelves that are, like, 100 years old?"

"I have a computer at home, whats the big deal about the library having computers?"

Go out in public and sometimes you will hear people say those exact statements. Some people, no matter what, believe the idea of a well-funded, well-rounded library is an antiquated notion. They believe libraries were important during the time when there was no internet, no Google, no e-books. Whatever. The average person who holds such a belief about the library does not make them correct.

Sure, there are older libraries who have not quite adapted to the newly formed theory of what libraries should be. Maybe their funding is low, therefore not allowing them to keep up with the library Jones. It happens, it is unfortunate, but those are not all libraries.

The Sumter County Library is an example of what libraries are trying to become in this chaotic, evolving library landscape. The Sumter County Library is not just a library - we are a community hub where people all over the county come for many different reasons.

What are these reasons? Check them out:

1. Free meeting space. Groups from all over the country have come and used our meeting facilities for free. We have several different rooms for all sizes of groups.

2. Public computers. Many people in this rural area don't have a computer. They cannot afford one. They lack computer literacy skills and need a librarian to help them fill out job applications or find tax forms. Our free internet is a vital source. Even patrons with laptops may come in, sit in a comfy seat and browse the web.

3. Classes. In our Reference Department several librarians teach computer classes in the Fall and Spring. We teach everything from Microsoft Word and Excel, how to use Ancestry.com, Facebook, you name it. Patrons need these classes to form skills which hopefully will translate into a job, or simply being able to manage a household budget.

4. Entertainment. The number of programs we offer to the entire community is awesome. From our Classic Movie Nights at the Sumter Opera House, movies at the Main library, child storytimes in the library and community, author talks, Book Sales and on and on and on. There is always something going on in our library system.

I do not mean to brag about what we offer here. We are a hard-working library attempting to serve our community in many different aspects.

The next time you have a conversation with someone about libraries, tell them libraries are a hub of life, a center for the community, a place for everyone to enjoy life, obtain an education and attempt to harbor a better future.

What's Microsoft Windows?

2010-01-11T12:40:00.002-05:00

Many of us are simply numb to computers. No matter what you try and do, you press a button and the big black box under the desk makes a funny noise and oops - no more computer. Trust us though - it's not your fault. The thing is - computers become far more easier to use once you figure out the very basics.

The same goes with Microsoft Word and Excel. Let's say you know how to use a computer, but need to make a household budget, or type out a letter to a landlord. If you aren't familiar with Microsoft Word or Excel, you should be! These programs allow you to simply create or edit documents. Once you learn how to use them, you will be equipped with valuable knowledge to use in your personal life, and professionally!

Where are we going with all this?

Take our computer classes!

Beginning today, January 11th, we have many computer classes available from Keyboarding, Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, Computer Basics, Ancestry.com, How to Use The Library and more!

Sign up today by calling 773.7273! Ask for the Reference Department and one of our amazing librarians will assist you!

Updates from Your Library

2009-11-17T14:00:00.002-05:00

Everyone here at The Sumter County Library wishes all our patrons and friends a wonderful holiday season. Once the Holidays are over there will be many activities and programs starting in the new year!

Computer classes begin January 11th. This session, which lasts from January to mid-April, features a brand new class - Microsoft PowerPoint! In addition to PowerPoint, we offer Computer Basics, Keyboarding, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Word, Ancestry and a Resume class.

Starting in January, Senior Movies at the Library begins at the Main branch. One Wednesday a month from 1 to 3pm, the library will play excellent movies catered toward senior citizens:

January 6, 2010 - Field of Dreams
February 10, 2010 - Driving Lessons
March 24, 2010 - Cocoon
April 21, 2010 - The Soloist
May 19, 2010 - Marley and Me

For the Holiday season, the library will be closed the following dates:

November 26 and 27 - Thanksgiving
December 24 and 25 - Christmas

Have a great Holiday season!

Fall into your Library

2009-09-25T13:52:00.004-04:00

It is now officially Fall and your library has many exciting events planned for the season. Our Fall 2009 Computer Classes have started, with many more classes available. Some of the classes include Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, Resume Workshop, Keyboarding and more. If you are interested in taking any of these classes, contact a Reference Librarian at 773.7273 to sign up.

On select dates throughout the Fall, the Main library presents its Fall Film Series.

The schedule is as follows:

October 1st: Dan In Real Life
October 15th: Man on Wire
October 29th: Quantum of Solace
November 5th: Juno
November 19th: The Secret Life of Bees

The Film Series features recent and popular films. The series is also free, so come down to the library and enjoy a film.

The Fourth Annual Forrest Ray 5k Run/Walk is Saturday, October 10 at 9 am. Registration begins at 8 am. You may register in advance on the race web page:

http://www.midnet.sc.edu/sumtercls/ForrestRay5k.htm or;

at the local YMCA on Miller Road.

There is always something happening at your Sumter County Library system. We invite you to come inside, and if you haven't already, sign up for a library card!

Did You Know?

2009-07-06T10:36:00.002-04:00

During these tough economic times, libraries are more valuable resources than ever. We provide assistance with building resumes, applying for jobs and researching career choices. Check out this video clip from the Today Show, which relays the need for libraries in our communities:

Today Show

The Sumter County Library has the tools and services you need to face economic problems head on. Our Fall Computer Classes begin in September. We have many exciting classes which will help you improve your job seeking skills including a resume workshop. Sign up for our Microsoft Word and Excel classes, as knowledge in both applications are invaluable to an employer.

To see the full list of classes available online, please visit:
Fall Computer Classes

Also available are instructional DVD’s on resume creation, job application and interview tips. Visit the Reference Desk at the Downtown Library to view these helpful materials.

On Thursday July 16th, our Meet the Authors Luncheon is scheduled for 12 pm in the Main Meeting Room of the Downtown Library. Joining us to discuss their works are Julie McLaughlin, Lexi Melton and Kate Salley Palmer. Tickets are just $7.00 and may be purchased at the Library or Waldenbooks. For more information, call 773.7273 or visit our website:
Meet the Author Luncheon

Do not forget the kids!

There are many events happening for children throughout the month of July, including movies and storytime at the Downtown Library, Wesmark and South Sumter Branch, craft making (registration required), and special appearances by animals, pirates and Peter the Puppeteer! Call 772-7273 for more information.
As you can clearly see, your Sumter County Library has all the bases covered. Make your summer a Grand Slam by taking part!

2009-06-04T09:00:00.001-04:00

Registration for Summer Reading begins now! Sign up the kids for a summer full of reading and activities!

Check out this link for more information:
http://www.midnet.sc.edu/sumtercls/summerreadingprogram.htm

The 2009 Film Series continues with:
Dancin' and Singin': Marvelous Musicals
Singin' In The Rain - June 4th
West Side Story - June 11th
Moulin Rouge - June 18th
Chicago - June 25th

Sign up for our free computer classes at the Downtown branch:
Facebook – June 15th
Computer Basics – June 9 and 23rd
Library Secrets Revealed – June 8 & 22nd
Job Hunting Skills – June 11th

Also, please visit our YouTube page, and add us on Twitter and Facebook to keep up with the many exciting activities happening in the Sumter County Library system!

The Library Is Heating Up!

2009-05-05T08:34:00.000-04:00

As the summer season approaches, cool down in the library with the many programs available throughout the month of May!

Our wonderful Children’s Department at the Downtown and Wesmark branches have exciting Storytime sessions in store for children on the following dates:

Downtown: May 6, 13, and 20th at 3 PM.
Wesmark: May 5, 12, and 19 at 10 AM.

On Saturday the 16th and Sunday the 19th, the Downtown branch will have Storytime at 3 PM.

The 2009 Film Series continues every Thursday at 5:30 PM at the Downtown branch. The schedule is as follows:

May 7th: The Grapes of Wrath
May 14th: To Kill A Mockingbird
May 21st: Henry V
May 28th: Pride and Prejudice

Interested in learning how to use a computer, Facebook or the library catalog? Need job hunting skills? The Downtown branch has several classes throughout the month of May:

Facebook: May 11 & 18 @ 10am
Library Secrets Revealed: May 13 & 27 @ 10am
Do-It-Yourself Computer Basics: May 5 and 19 @ 9:30am
Job Hunting Skills: May 14 and 28 @ 6pm

As always, the library strives to provide you, the patron, with the best service, programs and resources available. Come check us out today!

Programs Galore!

2009-04-15T11:51:00.000-04:00

Need something to do during April? The library has you covered.

On the 16^th and 23^rd the library continues its Film Series with Annie Hall and Airplane!, respectively. Beginning at 5:30 in the Main Meeting Room at the Main Branch, come enjoy a classic film for free!

Want to learn to use a computer, find a job, or use the library? Our computer classes are as follows:

April 20^th,4 PM: Facebook – Learn to use the top social networking site on the internet!

April 16^th and 20^th6 PM: Job Hunting Skills – Learn to create resumes and find using online resources.

April 27^th4 PM: Library Secrets Revealed – Unsure how to use our website and catalog? You will be amazed at what you can learn by taking this class!

April 28^th4 PM: Computer Basics – If you find computers difficult to use you will not after taking this course!

On Tuesday, April 21^st remember the heroic Anne Frank in the film Anne Frank: Life of a Young Girl in the Main Meeting Room at the Main Library.

Have children? Both the Main and Wesmark branches have Storytime. Call the Wesmark branch at 803-469-8110 or the Main branch at 803-773-7273 for more information.

On April 29^th at 10 AM representatives from Kuder Journey will be here to show you how to use their website to help guide you in starting a new career. Sign up at the Reference Desk or call 803-773-7273.

As always, we appreciate your support of the library. Thank you.

We Have Much In Store For You!

2009-04-01T13:08:00.002-04:00

The Spring and Summer looks to be an exciting time here at the Sumter County Library. We are receiving great new books for all of you to checkout and enjoy. Here are a few new non-fiction titles available from the Main Branch:

The New Book of Lists by David Wallechinsky and Amy Wallace.

Do you love random information about anything in the world? This exciting book has hundreds of lists on various topics including music, movies, art, pop culture, history and other subjects. Fill your brain with all the lists you can handle!

Decoding the Heavens by Jo Marchant.

Lying in a museum are two pieces of cardboard in the glass case. That’s what it looks like, at least. On closer inspection the pieces of cardboard are actually wheels and calculating devices dating back 2000 years ago. The Antikythera Mechanism is a two millennia old ancient computer from Greece which remains one of the world’s most intriguing mysteries.

The Carolinas, Georgia, and the South presented by Lonely Planet Travel Guides.

With the economy in such a slump, affordable and interesting travel is at a premium. With over 65 itineraries throughout the South this book will give you ideas for fun and interesting trips in our region of the country without breaking the bank!

Cloris: My Autobiography by Cloris Leachman

Cloris Leachman has been a Hollywood and entertainment staple for around 60 years. With her latest appearance on Dancing With the Stars, Leachman has experienced a career resurgence over the past couple of years. Read about her life experiences in this exclusive look on a lasting legend.

In addition to new titles, the library has a wealth of classes, programs and information. Beginning April 2^nd, the Main Library will begin its 2009 Film Series. We will show classic films based on three topics: 20^th century comedies, books as good as the movies and musicals. For a complete listing visit our website and click Library Programs.

From April to June we are offering computer classes on Facebook.com, basic computer skills, using the library and job hunting skills. To sign up, visit our Main branch or call 773-7273.

If you own a small business, it is valuable for you to understand how taxes affect your business. At the library we have a wealth of tax information for your business. Please stop by the Main branch and ask one of our friendly reference librarians about our resources.

Come and visit your library to see what we have to offer and we would love to hear feedback about what you would like to see happen here in the future!

-Ford Simmons, Reference Librarian, Main branch

Upcoming Events

2009-03-23T13:31:00.003-04:00

As part of our continuing effort to provide a variety of programs for the community, the Sumter County Library will be offering both a new round of computer classes as well as a new installment of our popular film series. You can find details on dates and times by clicking the Library Programs link on our homepage. While you are exploring the Library website, make sure and check the flickr link. It will show you many pictures taken during Library events. Don't forget to check our monthly calendar as well. Plans are currently underway to change both the look and address of the Library website, so keep checking back.
Our Children's Department, in addition to regular storytimes and movie showings, is planning a program for this spring based on the annual Day of the Child/Day of the Book (El dia de los ninos/El dia de los libros) celebration. They also have many activities planned for this years Summer Reading Program - details will be available in the coming weeks.
Looking ahead to the fall, the 4th Annual Forrest Ray 5K is scheduled for Saturday, October 10th. The much anticipated Friends of the Library Book Sale should be taking place in November.
We have a couple of efforts that are ongoing. In partnership with the City of Sumter, the Library is sponsoring the Classic Movie nights at the Opera House. These are held on the second Friday of each month with showtime at 7:00 pm. The Library has also been providing book reviews penned by staff members for the Sunday Item. These reviews highlight parts of our varied collection - so make sure and look for us in the Item.
Robert Harden

2009-01-22T18:01:00.003-05:00

The new year is bringing with it some very cold weather, a few snow flurries (which pushed the Library's opening time back an hour one day this past week), a new president, and other changes. Every year presents its own particular brand of change and challenges to be met. One of the challenges your public library will be meeting this year, along with everyone else, are the difficult economic times we find ourselves facing. We will be doing all we can to offer the best programs and services we can with the resources we have available.
One of our greatest resources are the people who help out and partner with the Sumter County Library. Our Friends group continues to be one of the mainstays of our support. They recently purchased some equipment for the Library that we would not have been able to obtain otherwise. Among other items, they purchased a document camera that has greatly enhanced storytime programs at the Library. The Friends have also pledged their help with Library programming and this years Summer Reading Program.
We also have many other friends who show their support through monetary contributions. The Library recently received generous donations from the Wal-Mart Foundation and the GFWC Bicentennial Woman's Club of Sumter. These kind and timely gifts will be used to purchase materials for our Children's Department. We have also partnered with the City of Sumter for Classic Movie Nights at the Opera House. Movies are shown on the big screen the second Friday of each month at 7:00 pm. North by Northwest, the Maltese Falcon, Stagecoach and a Night at the Opera are a few upcoming attractions.
The Library hopes to offer a variety of unique programs this year. Our Children's Department is planning a very special program for Chinese New Year on Saturday, January 31st. We plan to have a "dragon" powered by nine people inside. Call the Library for further details. Our present round of computer classes will be winding up next month. We currently plan on offering another series in the fall. In the meantime, the Shepherd's Center is holding computer classes at the Library on Thursday mornings. We hope to begin another round in our Film Series later in the Spring and the Wesmark Book Club continues to meet on the first Sunday of each month. For further information on the Book Club, call 469-8110.
The Library was fortunate to be able to purchase new computers for our Children's Department last year. Along with the new computers, new software programs have been installed. Our youngest patrons have been enjoying several of the JumpStart series, Spelling and Math Blaster, Grammar Made EZ, My First Amazing Science Explorer, Learn About Dinosaurs, and Reader Rabbit among others. We were also able to purchase Early Literacy Stations in both English and Spanish. These computers will have an assortment of fun and educational games and programs for children. The Library was able to purchase these Literacy Stations through a Library Services and Technology Act grant administered by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) and the South Carolina State Library.
Finally, your Sumter County Library greatly appreciates the support we receive from the community and especially from the Friends of the Library. Please consider joining if you haven't already. Applications are available at each Library location and can also be printed out from the Library website. And BTW, keep checking back at our website - we have a few changes we hope to be implementing soon. Change and challenges - your local Library plans to make the best we can of both.
Robert Harden - Director

Forrest Ray 5K 2008 - a great success

2008-10-14T12:59:00.004-04:00

The Third Annual Forrest Ray 5K Run/Walk was held this past Saturday, October 11th and was a great success. We had 148 runners and walkers brave the wet, breezy conditions to help support and raise money for our Library. The overall winner, for the third year in a row, was Trey Parker of Wilson Hall. His fellow Barron, Joshua Jennings finished second, and Reid Schwartz was third. Wilson Hall took the school participation plaque, and the Military Squadron/Unit participation plaque went to the 609 ACOMS/AFCENT A60. A complete list of the winners in each category as well as the times for all those who tied a chip to their shoelace can be found at strictlyrunning.com or by clicking on the link on the Library website homepage. Check out our FlickR account as well – also accessible from the Library homepage. There are some great pictures from this year’s race. I had the opportunity to participate in this years 5K and finished 63rd. I’ve got some work to do to prepare for next year. Go ahead and mark it on your calendars – Saturday, October 10th, 2009 @ 9:00 am at the Downtown Library.
Despite the weather, everyone seemed to have a good time. We at the Library are particularly appreciative of the support by all those who participate and volunteer. Very special thanks go out to our presenting sponsor, SAFE Credit Union. We’d also like to thank our other sponsors, Adams Outdoor, BiLo Charities, Body By Sue, Central Carolina Technical College, Chick-Fil-A, 1895 Inn Savannah, Friends of the Sumter County Library, Kiwanis Club of Sumter, Logistics Officer Association, Piggly Wiggly, Sumter County Active Lifestyles, Sumter Packaging, Thompson Industrial, and the YMCA.
Special thanks go out to all the volunteers who help this event come together each year. Thanks to the members of the race committee who meet throughout the spring, summer and early fall to make sure every T is crossed and every I dotted. Thanks to Girl Scout Troops 2586 and 2250 for being at the water stations and cheering on the runners – their enthusiasm and high sprits contribute to the race every year. The USC Fire Ants softball teams have helped out the last couple of years – taking on the very important task of helping direct runners and walkers on the race route. Sumter City and County Law Enforcement helped direct traffic – many, many thanks for your support. Palmer Memorial Chapel provided covering – especially appreciated on a rainy day. The Friends of the Library also helped out in many ways – filling race bags (with help from the Girl Scouts!), taking care of intersections, and helping out in many different ways before and during the race. The staff of the Sumter County Library deserves a special hand for going above and beyond their regular responsibilities to collect coupons, distribute posters, put together displays, serve on the race committee, and come in on their day off to volunteer for race day.
Many different people and organizations helped out by providing materials for the “goody” bags we have for participants in the 5K. We received items from our local Armed Services Recruiters, Sumter County Active Lifestyles, and Runner’s World. Coupons were donated by Pizza Hut, Baskin Robbins, Zaxby’s, Chick-Fil-A, Tranquil Journey Health & Wellness Spa, Best of Season’s, Brick Street Coffee Break, Mr. P’s Car Wash, Foo Garden, Twin Dragon, Angels Mexican Restaurant, Special Teas on Main, Hibachi Grill, Hardees, Osaka, Jersey Mike’s Subs, Busters, Palmetto Subs and Waffle House. We were able to raffle items donated by Baker’s Sweets, Mary Ann’s Deli, Ryan’s, and the Tuomey Foundation.
Special mention needs to be made of the Sumter Riding Club – the Sumter Easy Riders and Sumter Chain Gang for putting on a 30 mile charity ride in conjunction with the 5K. Thanks for helping support the Library!
Money raised from this year’s Forrest Ray 5K will continue the vision Forrest Ray had for our Library to provide the best possible services and programs we can in the best possible facilities. This year we will use the funds raised to purchase materials for our Children’s Department at all Library locations. The Forrest Ray 5K is a great community event, a great event for the Library, and this year it is helping to lend a hand to the youngest members of our community.
Again – thanks for helping your Library.
Robert Harden - Library Director

Fall Library Happenings

2008-09-23T17:15:00.003-04:00

There are many special activities and programs coming up at your Library during the next few weeks and months. First and foremost is the running of the third annual Forrest Ray 5K Run/Walk Celebration. This event will be held on October 11, 2008 at the Main Library @ 111 N. Harvin Street. This year’s route will begin and end at the Downtown Library, winding through downtown Sumter and several historic neighborhoods. A map of the route and registration details are available on the Library website @ www.midnet.sc.edu/sumtercls. You can also register at http://www.ymcasumter.org/ or http://www.strictlyrunning.com/ . Registration on race day will begin at 8:00 am and the start time for the 5K is 9:00 am.

Fundraisers are an important way for the Library to raise money to support programs and services. Money raised from this year’s 5K will be used to purchase materials for Children’s Services. Our Children’s collection recently received a boost from a donation made by the Junior Welfare League of Sumter. Their generous contribution has allowed us to place many new titles on the shelves. We are also fortunate to receive frequent donations of children’s books from the Kiwanis.

Our Friends’ group is very active and are an invaluable help to the Library. We were recently able to purchase a Document Camera with help from the Friends. Our Children’s Librarians are very excited about this acquisition, and are looking forward to enhancing their Storytime presentations with this device.

Speaking of the Friends, the Annual Book Sale is scheduled for early November. Thursday, November 6th will be the Friends Preview Night (memberships will be available at the door for those who would like to join) and continue through November 7th, 8th, and 9th. The second weekend of the sale will be on November 14th, 15th, and 16th. We will be at the Sumter Mall again this year. Buy early and buy often. Not only will you be supporting the Friends, you will find excellent books and other items at prices that can’t be beat.

We have a film series that will begin on Tuesday, September 23rd. This falls series is entitled “Not Just for Baby Boomers – If you’ve only seen it on TV, you haven’t really seen it”. These will be shown on every other Tuesday (Election Day excepted) through December 16th. The series kicks off with A Hard Days Night, and other movies scheduled are A Streetcar Named Desire (Marlon Brando (Stella!) made his mark with this film, but it’s Vivien Leigh’s Blanche DuBois that is one of the finest performances in movie history), Dial M for Murder, Rocky (Adrian!) Harold and Maude, and Pocket Full of Miracles. Show time is 5:30 pm in the Downtown Meeting Room.

There is also a Teen Movie Night scheduled for Thursday, October 16th from 6:00 to 8:00 pm. This is being presented in conjunction with Chestnut Oaks and Bates Middle Schools.

The South Carolina Bar has been offering a series of clinics on legal issues. There are two remaining – Wills, Estates & Probate on September 25th and Real Estate Issues on October 2nd. Each session begins at 6:00 pm at the Downtown Library in the Main Meeting Room.

Carl Winters “The Kalimba King” will be performing at the Downtown Library on Saturday, September 27th, 3:30 pm. A kalimba is a thumb piano fashioned from African gourds. The Kalimba King will put on a fifty minute program featuring spirituals, Civil Rights/Freedom songs, jazz, and blues.

Our Wesmark Branch Library has recently begun a Book Club. They meet the first Sunday of every month at the Wesmark Library from 3:00 to 5:00 pm. The next meeting is scheduled for October 5th, and Vinegar Hill by A. Manette Ansay is the book that will be featured. The Last Promise by Richard Paul Evans will be discussed on November 2nd, and The Covenant by Naomi Ragen on December 7th.

The Wesmark Branch has also scheduled a Halloween program for October 31st and a special program featuring “Benjamin Franklin” on November 10th at 6:30. The Downtown Library is planning a program on the subject of South Carolina Native Americans for Saturday, November 8th from 2:00 to 4:00 pm and a “Read Along and Sing Along with Santa” for Saturday, December 6th from 6:00 to 7:00 pm.

Please call the Library at 773-7273 (Downtown) 469-8110 (Wesmark) or 775-7132 (South Sumter) for more information on any of these events.

Robert Harden

Summer Reading Program

2008-05-08T12:06:00.002-04:00

No flu shot is needed to Catch the Reading Bug -- the theme of this year's Summer Vacation Reading program. Designed for children ages 3 - 12 years of age, an Early Bird Sign-up will be on Thursday, May 22 during our SC-ETV's Meet & Greet Clifford the Big Red Dog event from 10 am - 12 noon at the Downtown Main Library. If unable to attend, registration officially will begin on June 4 at all branches, and the annual program will run through August 6.The purpose of Summer Vacation Reading is twofold -- to retain the skills from one school year to the next, and to instill a lifelong love of reading. For ten books read, participating children will receive a prize, and for twenty books read, children will receive a Reading Certificate of accomplishment. Many mini specials are planned throughout the nine weeks of the program; so please register and follow along with the Calendar of Events which comes with the registration packet. Happy summer reading!
Karen Edgar

April @ the Library

2008-04-11T12:41:00.003-04:00

We have some very interesting events scheduled at the Library for April, which is BTW, Jazz Appreciation Month. The Library collection has several books, CDs, and DVDs on the subject worth checking out. April 13-19 is National Library Week. I'd like to suggest two possible ways to observe National Library Week. First, think of all the different services that libraries provide. Now, think of a world without libraries and without those services. Personally, libraries have been an important part of my life since my parents first took me to the old Carnegie Library on Liberty Street when I was a little boy. I've loved libraries ever since and think the world would be a poorer place without them. This year's theme for National Library Week is "Join the circle of knowledge @ your library" and we certainly have a wide variety of services to help you do just that. One new service to checkout is SchoolRooms. You can access SchoolRooms from the Library website. It is a new K-12 online multimedia discovery place for South Carolina students. SchoolRooms has been designed to provide a "Best of the Web" approach to internet and database searching. The content has been selected by over 200 teachers and librarians. It is possible to search 3 million educator-selected pages in 71 subject areas with content aligned to curriculum standards. The SchoolRooms project is being developed by the South Carolina State Library with funding provided by IMLS and LSTA.
The Library will host El dia de los ninos y el dia de los libros (Day of the child, day of the book) on April 19th at the Downtown Library from 3-5. Check with our Children's Department for further details. April 19th is also the day for the Festival on the Avenue. The festival will begin with a parade from Bartlette Street featuring J. David Weeks as Grand Marshall. The event plans to showcase many local talents and will have singing, dancing, poetry, vendors with local cuisines, arts and crafts, a carnival, competitions and the Sumter County Library Bookmobile will also be on hand. The schedule for that day is 10:00 to 4:00.
On April 23rd, from 4:00 to 5:00 pm at the Downtown Library, along with the Wofford College Troubadour Series, we will be presenting a program featuring the music of classical guitarist Andres Segovia and the poetry of Carl Sandburg. Jhon Akers will be the featured performer. Light refreshments will be served at the conclusion of the concert and attendees will have an opportunity to meet the artist.
To help kick off the Sumter Scottish Fair and Celtic Festival, the movie Braveheart will be shown at 6:30 pm on April 24th at the Downtown Library. There are also some interesting items on display at the Downtown Library in coordination with this festival.

Robert

Author Luncheon

2008-03-28T11:33:00.004-04:00

The Friends of the Sumter County Library held their annual author luncheon on March 14th at the Sunset Country Club. This years event featured mystery writer Kathryn R. Wall, who not only stepped in on very short notice, but made the trip to Sumter while dealing with a sudden illness in her family. Words cannot express our gratitude - not only for her making the trip at all, but also for giving a very informative and entertaining presentation. Kathryn Wall is the author of seven novels (number eight is coming out in April) set in the Low Country of South Carolina. Her heroine, Lydia Baynard Simpson Tanner lives in Hilton Head and has a peculiar gift for getting herself, friends, and loved ones involved in a series of suspenseful and dangerous situations. The books are very entertaining and contain a great deal of local color. Ms. Wall knows her venue very well, particularly impressive considering she retired to Hilton Head after a career as an accountant in Ohio. Human nature is human nature wherever you are, to paraphrase Agatha Christie's Miss Marple, and Kathryn Wall has keen insight in that area. Her characters are very well developed. Although it isn't necessary to read the books in the sequence they were published, it is enjoyable to start at the beginning and see how the characters change and develop from one book to the next.
I initiated an interesting discussion at the luncheon on the subject of Bay Tanner's love life, specifically her French boyfriend Alain Darnay. An attendee took exception, thinking that I didn't like the character because he was French. I explained that my beef with Darnay wasn't his nationality, but that I just didn't think he was "right" for Bay and that on again/off again detecting partner Erik Whiteside would be a better match. Pick up a Bay Tanner mystery and decide for yourself. You might even think Red Tanner, Bay's brother-in-law, is the best match of the three. Did I mention Bay's life is rather complicated?
The Friends Author Luncheon committee led by Dotty Lyles did a wonderful job. The flowers were beautiful, the table arrangements were perfectly in keeping with the theme of the Bay Tanner mysteries, and the menu was perfect. Thanks also to luncheon committee members Betsy Acken, Elaine Cameron, Rose Marie Newman and Nancy Wilson.
Robert

Public Library Appreciation Day

2008-01-22T19:36:00.000-05:00

Do you appreciate your public library? The South Carolina General Assembly has passed a concurrent resolution declaring January 31, 2008 be Public Library Appreciation Day in South Carolina. This concurrent resolution concludes by stating, "Be it further resolved that the people of South Carolina avail themselves of the many rich services provided by our public libraries to meet their educational, informational, and recreational needs." It is the sincere hope of the entire staff of the Sumter County Library that we are meeting the needs of our community as outlined in the proceeding statement. And we hope you have been showing your appreciation of the Library by availing yourself of our many services. Perhaps you've stopped in to pick up a tax form. Federal forms are here and state forms should be on the way shortly. Maybe you came by to read a newspaper, read or checkout a magazine, checkout the latest bestseller or audio book. Or a DVD. You may have gone online to surf the internet, check your e-mail, fill out a job application, or follow the latest political happenings on websites or blogs. It could be that one of the junior members of your family attended storytime or one of the senior members checked out a title from our large print collection. You could have downloaded an audio book or used an online database. Maybe you attended a film, took one of our computer classes, used one or our meeting and study rooms, or went to a program. We have a great deal to offer and we certainly appreciate the support you have given and continue to give your public library. Please make sure to avail yourself of these and all our other services.
Robert Harden/Director

Friends

2007-10-30T16:54:00.000-04:00

Public libraries play a very important role in the life of a community - in the very fabric of society. A public library helps to insure that the information resources of a city, county, state, nation, etc., are available to all citizens. One of the cornerstones of democracy is that of an informed citizenry and the public library certainly has a vital part in providing services for the educational, cultural, and recreational needs of its patrons.
Libraries are fortunate when they have supporters who are committed to its mission. The Sumter County Library has been exceptionally lucky over the years to have a very dedicated and hardworking Friends group. Volunteers have been toiling for months sorting through donations and organizing materials into appropriate categories in preparation for the annual book sale. The location this year will be what was the old Service Merchandise store at Sumter Mall. This is the large, anchor store between Sears and JC Penney. The sale begins with a Friend's Only Night on Thursday, November 1 from 6 - 8:30 pm. If you aren't a Friend of the Library, you can join up Thursday evening and take advantage of opening night. We'll be glad to have you on board. The sale will continue on Friday, November 2 and 9 from 4-8:30 pm; Saturday, November 3 and 10 from 10 am - 6 pm; and Sunday, November 4 and 11 from 1:30 - 5 pm. All proceeds go to the Friends of the Library which will help the Library provide materials, programs, and services to meet the needs of the community.
One Friends fundraising event is about to begin and another was held on a beautiful October Saturday a few weeks ago. Over 170 runners and walkers turned out on the 13th to participate in the 2nd annual Forrest Ray 5K Run/Walk Celebration. Trey Parker of Wilson Hall School was the overall winner for the second consecutive year, trimming over a minute from his time last year. He completed the race in 15:54. Wilson Hall also won the school participation award. The military participation award went to Shaw's combined 28th and 9th Operational Weather Squadrons. Again, many thanks to all who came out to support the Library.
Robert

Forrest Ray 5K Run/Walk Celebration 2007 Winners

Overall:
1st Place Trey Parker 15:54
2nd Place Chris Hicks 16:52
3rd Place Joshua Jennings 17:41

Adult Male Adult Female
1st Place Chris Hicks 1st Place Rita Hobi
2nd Place James Goodson 2nd Place Julie Herlong
3rd Place Scott Snyder 3rd Place Heather Durant

Military Male Military Female
1st Place William Ray 1st Place Cathy Norwood
2nd Place James Slisik 2nd Place Noelle Caldwell
3rd Place Scott Stewart 3rd Place Jennifer Young

Youth Male Youth Female
1st Place Trey Parker 1st Place Erin Pratt
2nd Place Joshua Jennings 2nd Place Kat Blanchard
3rd Place Josh Watts 3rd Place Amber Collins

Forrest Ray 5K Traveling High School Cup Wilson Hall

2007-10-05T09:50:00.000-04:00

The Sumter County Library is very excited about the upcoming Forrest Ray 5K Classic Run/Walk Celebration on Saturday, October 13. The race begins at the Downtown Library at 9:00 am, and we'll be taking registration right up to race time. This years event will feature timing chips that will bring a bit more of a professional feel to the competition. Another added feature will be the awarding of the Forrest A. Ray Traveling High School Cup that will go to the fastest high school student. The Cup will remain at the High School until another school is able to wrest it away in future annual races. While the competitive aspect contributes to the sporting element of the event, the focus is still on fundraising for the Library. All proceeds go to the Friends of the Library and we welcome all participants - those who are determined to be best in the field, those who are organizing their own competitions with fellow runners, and also those who just want to participate in a great community event and support the Library.

As Interim Director of the Sumter County Library, I cannot begin to extend my thanks to those who have worked so tirelessly on the 5K or to those who support the Library in so many different ways. Bosch Braking Systems recently donated a collection of beautifully framed artwork featuring vignettes from around Sumter. These pictures are now hanging in the Library and have already attracted appreciative comments from Library staff and patrons. Bosch is also donating an extraordinarily restored 1929 Ford Model A to the Library. They should be delivering it to us shortly, and then the car will be auctioned online with the proceeds going to the Friends of the Library. The amazing restoration on this classic automobile was done by apprentices working at Bosch. Bosch also donated the funds that made the Technology Area possible at our Wesmark Branch. Thanks Bosch for all you've done for the Library!

The support we receive allows the Library to purchase items for our collection (books, audiobooks, dvds, etc.) that in turn benefit our patrons. We also receive support from people who come to our Library to present programs for the public. Kirstin Hemphill braved the rain and the traffic from the USC-Kentucky game to drive from Columbia to present an SAT Math Game Thursday evening, October 4, at the Downtown Library. The spirited students who attended formed three teams competing against each other in a "Jeopardy" style game that featured categories such as Arithmetic, Geometry, and Algebra I and II. Kirstin is a math and science tutor with a B.S. in Materials Science and Engineering from Penn State. Kirstin says "I feel a responsibility to "the next generation" and South Carolina to give back to the community by providing this program free of charge, as a lot of students do not have the means of hiring a private SAT tutor, or attending an expensive prep course. I felt it was important to try to find a way to make it as fun as possible, as studying for the SATs can be a daunting task." Judging by the fun the participants seemed to be having, Kirstin more than achieved her goal.

Robert

Forrest Ray 5K Run/Walk Celebration

2007-09-04T10:49:00.000-04:00

On October 13, 2007, the FORREST RAY 5K RUN/WALK CELEBRATION will be held as part of Octoberfest in Sumter County. The race is a fundraising event for the Sumter County Library. This will be the second year for the 5K, which is the inspired creation of Forrest Ray, a musician, avid reader, and dedicated library supporter. Forrest came up with the idea as a way to raise money to help in the renovation/expansion project of the Library Headquarters that saw the library go from an outdated relic of the 1960’s to the state of the art facility that opened in May of this year after a year and a half of construction. Forrest’s vision did not end with the construction of the building, however. Once the “house” was built, he envisioned this race becoming an annual event that would engage the entire community in raising money for furnishings, library programming, and books and audiovisual materials to fill the many rows of new shelving.

Last year’s race attracted over 100 participants. Forrest worked tirelessly to make the first annual 5K the success it was, even while enduring the effects of the cancer that would claim his life four months later. As a sign of appreciation for his efforts, the Library Board of Trustees and the Friends of the Library voted to name the event in his memory.

An athletic competition is perhaps not the first thing that would spring to mind when thinking of fundraising possibilities for a Library, but it has turned out to be a very inventive idea that takes into consideration the “whole” person – a health inspired event that will raise money to benefit the educational, cultural, and recreational life of Sumter County. In addition, the 5K positions the library front and center in a community event. This race will bring together young and old, industry and schools, Sumter and Shaw AFB residents, in fact, the very people the library wishes to reach and serve. The Sumter YMCA immediately signed on as a co-sponsor, as did Sumter County Lifestyles. SAFE Federal Credit Union became a major corporate supporter this year, thus enabling the event to soar to a new dimension of excellence.

The FORREST RAY 5K RUN/ WALK will begin at 9:00 am at the Sumter County Library, and the race itself will follow a route that will take runners and walkers through downtown Sumter, past residences in the historic district, and finish at the beautiful Swan Lake Gardens. Transportation will be available to take participants back to the library. Registration is available online at the Sumter YMCA (an organizational sponsor of the race) at http://www.ymcasumter.org or the library’s site, www.midnet.sc.edu/sumtercls.

Robert

2007-08-20T11:44:00.000-04:00

High temperature and humidity aside, summer is drawing to a close. Schools will be back in session this week and you can already tell that the days are getting slightly shorter. Here at the Library we are also beginning to make the transition to fall. The biggest change will of course be the students that will be coming to the Library after school to work on homework, science projects, and the inevitable term papers. We are looking forward to being able to provide assistance to our student patrons in our expanded facility. Several plans are in the formative stages for programming for the fall, but it might be a good time to pause and look back over the last few months.

The Summer Reading program, Get A Clue, was a resounding hit. It was evident that the children thoroughly enjoyed the programs that our intrepid Children’s Department staff provided for them. Kudos to Karen Edgar, Vickey Haynesworth, Janet Caldwell, Nipa Brown, Glenda Fulwood, and the entire staff as well as their tireless volunteers who worked so hard to make this year the success it was. And we can’t forget to thank the Friends of the Library who once again sponsored the programs – we couldn’t have done it without their support. Speaking of support and the Children’s Department, the Junior Welfare League of Sumter has once again supplied the Library with a generous donation to purchase books. Some of these have already arrived and will soon be making their way into the hands of eager young readers. The Kiwanis have also done much in the past and continue to provide books for the Children’s Department. These organizations are helping to foster the habit and joy of reading in young library users that will last them a lifetime.

Our movie nights have been a growing favorite, with just the right blend of contemporary and classic movies. One week our patrons have enjoyed Robin Williams in RV, another James Dean in the enduring Rebel Without A Cause. We’ve already worked up a slate of movies for the fall and details will be forthcoming shortly.

The Downtown Library was closed on Friday, August 17. We apologize for any inconvenience this caused our patrons, but the day was spent by the staff in honing their skills to better serve the Sumter community. We were very fortunate to have presentations in the morning from two staff members from the South Carolina State Library, which works tirelessly to support libraries across the state. Deborah Hotchkiss presented a customer service workshop that went against the grain of treating patrons as potential problems to be dealt with or managed. Instead, her focus was on how the attitude of the staff can make patrons feel welcome as soon as they walk through the doors. Amy Duernberger followed with a demonstration of the many tools available through the online databases of DISCUS, which is accessible at the Library and for home use as well. Contact the Library for any information on the incredible goldmine of information that can be obtained from the DISCUS databases. The morning lineup was perfect – the importance of good customer service followed by a great customer service tool. The afternoon session was headed by Joseph Tobiere, the longtime IT for the Library. From the moment the Internet made its first appearance at the Library when we had a grand total of three or four computers for public use, to the 35+ that are in our lab today, Joseph has been their every step of the way as the Sumter County Library has made its way along the information highway. If you ever drive by the Library late at night and see a light burning somewhere in the building, that’s probably Joseph or one of his techs responding to a cry for help from the library staff. Joseph gave a very informational talk on computer use in the library that was very appreciated by all those staff members that attended.

So, it’s been a pretty good summer and we look forward to many new and exciting ways to serve the Sumter community in the fall months ahead.

Robert

Book Review

2007-07-30T13:06:00.001-04:00

One of our patrons, Beatrice Brown, is acting as guest blogger to give us her review of the new Harry Potter book by J. K. Rowling. Beatrice doesn't give away the plot (but beware of spoilers!) Hopefully, we will be able to offer reviews from more of our younger patrons in the near future.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows was one book that I did not want to put down. As soon as I opened the first page, I was drawn into Harry's next adventure. J. K. Rowling holds a level of suspense through out every part of the book.

The first chapter, like many other Harry Potter novels, does not begin in Harry's point of view. As the story progresses, Harry comes into the picture. Harry, who is just about to turn 17, is trying to figure himself out. Since Dumbledore died and Voldemort came back, the wizard world has been in turmoil. Voldemort's death eaters are trying to hunt Harry down and they are killing everyone in their path.

Harry has to make the tough decision of going after Voldemort or staying and following Dumbledore's orders of destroying all of the Horcruxes. Ron, Hermonie, and Harry decide to follow Dumbledore's orders which eventually lead them to Voldemort.

In this Harry Potter adventure, many questions are answered and many events happen that change everything. There is even an epilogue that tells about what happens to Harry 19 years later. So, instead of reading this, why don't you go out and borrow the book from the library and start Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows!

Beatrice Brown

New at the Library

2007-07-24T20:23:00.000-04:00

A book about a certain young wizard has dominated the publishing headlines for a while now, but since it's hit the shelves of bookstores and libraries everywhere, it might be a good time to look at some other titles that are new on the shelves of the Sumter County Library. The Berlin Wall stood for nearly thirty years as a symbol of oppression and totalitarianism before its fall. Author Frederick Taylor has written a book combining official history, archival materials and personal accounts in The Berlin Wall : a World Divided 1961-1989. He details the story of the Wall's rise and eventual fall, recounting the stories of those who risked their lives to scale the Wall to freedom and those who paid the ultimate price in attempting to do so.

The story goes that shortly after the Allied invasion of Italy in 1943, an Army Ranger on a beach in Salerno was asked by a staff officer where William Darby, one of the most successful officers of World War II, could be located. The Ranger replied, "You'll never find him this far back." Darby began the war as an artillery captain, but by 1945 had been promoted to colonel and had commanded Ranger battalions in twelve major battles. His story is told in Onward We Charge - the Heroic Story of Darby's Rangers in World War II by H. Paul Jeffers.

Continuing backwards on history's timeline, Amity Shales writes a reinterpretation of the Great Depression in The Forgotten Man - a New History of the Great Depression. She details the neglected stories of the individual Americans and their struggles during this time. And delving even further into the past, Privilege and Scandal - the Remarkable Life of Harriet Spencer, Sister of Georgiana tells the story of Lady Harriet Spencer, ancestor of Princess Diana. Janet Gleason pens the story of Harriet's life. Lady Spencer was an eyewitness of the French Revolution, traveled through Europe during the Napoleonic Wars, gambled excessively, and quarreled with Lord Byron when he pursued her younger daughter.

The Lincoln Highway : Coast to Coast From Times Square to the Golden Gate celebrates America's first transcontinental highway. The story begins in 1913 with a new highway that stretched across 3,389 miles and thirteen states. It lured newly motoring Americans to drive their Model Ts and explore a frontier that was even then beginning to fade away. After a period of decline, the Lincoln Highway has experienced a renewal of interest of late. Authors Michael Wallis and Michael S. Williamson report the finds that adventurous travelers can discover - from a portrait of Ronald Reagan made from 14,000 jelly beans in Illinois to the bends of the "Loneliest Road" in Nevada.

Finally, in Porch Talk - Stories of Decency, Common Sense, & Other Endangered Species, author and storyteller Philip Gulley reminds the reader of a time when life revolved around the front porch. Friends gathered, stories were told, and small moments took on large meanings.

You can find all these and much more at the Sumter County Library, so come and check us out.

Robert

Interactive Search Guide being Created at the Wesmark Branch

2007-07-16T16:06:00.000-04:00

The Wesmark Branch is extremely excited to announce that we are in the very early stages of creating an interactive instructional guide for searching POLARIS – our online catalog. This guide will feature animations, graphics, and optional sound. It will be geared towards the young adult patron to the very mature patron. The purpose of the guide is to provide a fun but informative method for information gathering in an electronic environment. However, it will not replace the personal and professional service that the Wesmark Branch provides.

Keep blogging to learn about the progress of this project and the many other surprises that the Wesmark Branch has planned for our patrons.

Chris

Friday Night and Harry Potter (and Saturday morning, too!)

2007-07-13T11:33:00.001-04:00

The Sumter County Library has a special program planned for Friday night and Saturday morning to celebrate the release of the latest (and last in the series) Harry Potter book. We will be closing Friday, July 20, at our regular time of 6:00 pm, and then reopening at 9:00 pm for a special showing beginning at 9:30 of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. The movie should conclude around midnight, and at 12:01 am, we will be holding a special drawing. Three lucky people will be the first ones able to check out Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. We will also be drawing for a set of the first six Harry Potter books and two DVDs, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban and Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone - (special note: you must be present to win) This event will be taking place in our new Meeting Room. We'll be providing the popcorn and we'll also be on hand to give directions and lead everyone to the right place. The entire staff is very excited about this program. Our Children's Librarians, Assistants, and volunteers are hard at work to make this an occasion to remember - so please plan on joining us for this very special event.

He's here!

2007-07-11T13:25:00.000-04:00

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, the final installment in the series by J. K. Rowling arrived at the Library this morning. Of course, he is still in the box with strict instructions not to be released before 12:01 am, July 21, 2007. Stay tuned for further information.

Robert

"You don't have the book I want"

2007-07-10T10:54:00.000-04:00

Just because we don't own a book, doesn't mean we can't get it for you! We borrow hundreds of books every year on InterLibrary loan (ILL). We cooperate regularly with our Polaris partners--Darlington, Chester, Dillon, Georgetown, Marion & Marlboro county libraries-- borrowing their books and loaning ours to them. We can get a book through the SC State Library--they loan items from their collection and USC's Thomas Cooper Library in Columbia. We also borrow regularly from the Richland County Public Library. Any library can ask to borrow items from any other library just by using the ALA (American Library Assoc) ILL form. Recently, one of our patrons borrowed microfilm for genealogy research from the Library of Virginia. Any Reference Librarian, at any branch can help you begin the process. It may take a week or two for your items to get here, but it's usually free of charge and very convenient. Questions, call Janet at 774-7123.

Transitions

2007-06-30T17:12:00.000-04:00

Transitions. That's the word that crops up the most when I think about the last few years here at the Sumter County Library. It has been a time of constant change, packing and unpacking, moving from one location to another while our Wesmark Branch and the Downtown Library were being renovated and expanded. It has definitely been a challenge for the Library staff, and I know it has been for our patrons as well. Having to hand out flashlights to help people find their way around the stacks as we had to do in one of our temporary locations wasn't exactly the ideal library environment, but somehow everything worked out and the Sumter community was amazingly patient. Now we are settling into our new Library and the consensus opinion seems to be that it was worth all the effort. I began working at the Library in June of 1980, twenty-seven years ago, and even back then it was apparent that we sorely needed more space. We have that now and the entire staff at all our locations (Downtown, Wesmark, and South Sumter) is dedicated to offering the best possible library service we can. Whether you are a regular patron, drop by once in a while, or have never used the library, come in and see what we have to offer.

And please let us know what we can do to improve our services - let us know what kind of books, movies, audiobooks, magazines, etc. you would like the Library to have in the collection. Also, share your ideas of what types of programs you would like the Library to offer. We look forward to hearing from you.

About our blog - I was at the American Library Association conference recently, and many of the topics were centered around social software and web-based information services such as Wikis, Blogs, Web 2.0, Podcasting and Flickr. The big question and challenge facing libraries is how to properly use these technologies to actually improve services to patrons - it should not be a matter of just jumping on board with the latest trend. Hopefully this blog can be a good starting point to test the waters. I hope as many members of the Library staff as possible will share information about what's going on at the Library - whether its a program like the Hot Nights - Cool Movies, the appearance of the Charleston County Dive Team on July 11th, or just the latest bestsellers we've added to the collection.

Robert Harden

Movie Nights at your library

2007-06-29T14:40:00.000-04:00

Beginning next Tuesday July 3rd, the Downtown Library will be hosting 'Hot Nights with Cool Movies' at 5:30 in the Meeting Room. We are doing two series - Modern and Classic - on alternate weeks. The Modern series consists of : I Walk the Line, RV, Pirates of the Caribbean, and The Devil Wears Prada. The Classic will be showing and discussing She Wore a Yellow Ribbon, Rebel Without a Cause, The Graduate, and Star Wars - A New Hope! We think that offers something for almost everyone and we hope to build a strong base for different approaches in the fall - maybe a foreign film series, or musicals, or horror? Anyway, we will be soliciting opinions as we go along. So come on out and view something fun with us and maybe learn something interesting! For instance that is NOT Anne Bancroft's leg in the notorious ad picture for The Graduate - but it does belong to another famous Hollywood star - know who? By the way, all films are of course BYOP! (Bring your own popcorn)

David

A New Beginning!

2007-06-29T14:15:00.001-04:00

Last year when we began experimenting with a blog it was decidedly experimental. But now that we're in our new Downtown library and have our new staff aboard, we feel that we have a better handle on what we want our blog to accomplish: 1. we want it to be almost instant updates rather than waiting for an article in the newspaper or inhouse handouts etc. 2. we want you to hear from as many of our staff in as many areas as we can so it doesn't always reflect the same 'take' on things 3. we hope it becomes interactive and that way we can be aware of what the public community wants in the way of programing and activities.
So here goes - by the way, all the posts will be signed by its author so you'll know who to contact for more info. And we're off!

Sumter County Library - A Place For You!

Libraries Change Lives

Forrest Ray 5k

Challenges and changes

This Summer Is Hot, Hot, Hot!

National Library Week April 10-16

National Library Week

SumterWorks

A New Year Equals New Events at Your Library

Friends Book Sale a Tremendous Success

An Update

Sumter County Library Video Blog

A Summer Reading Success

2010 End of Summer Reading Party

2010 End of Summer Reading Party

Libraries and Netflix

Byki Foreign Language Training

Rappin' Poetry Slam!

Magician Brandon Wagster at the Library

State Funding Is Needed For Libraries

More Video from our Everybody Eats Rice Event!

Everybody Eats Rice

New Video Blog

Happenings

Sumter County Library - Staff Reviews

Third Army Expo

New Video Blog!!

Thanks to Friends

A Random Thought on Libraries and Reading

What Do We Mean To You?

Keeping Track Of Your Books

A Saturday Snapshot

What This Librarian Learned From Haiti

2010 U.S. Census

Ravens (Not the Baltimore football team)

So, who was her Second Cousin?

Reconceptualizing the Library, Or, We Aren't What You Think We Are

What's Microsoft Windows?

Updates from Your Library

Fall into your Library

Did You Know?

The Library Is Heating Up!

Programs Galore!

We Have Much In Store For You!

Upcoming Events

Forrest Ray 5K 2008 - a great success

Fall Library Happenings

Summer Reading Program

April @ the Library

Author Luncheon

Public Library Appreciation Day

Friends

Forrest Ray 5K Run/Walk Celebration

Book Review

New at the Library

Interactive Search Guide being Created at the Wesmark Branch

Friday Night and Harry Potter (and Saturday morning, too!)

He's here!

"You don't have the book I want"

Transitions

Movie Nights at your library

A New Beginning!